America’s number one TV show, American Idol began its ninth season last Tuesday, and three notable changes have gotten everyone talking.

1. Paula’s out. She left the show before the ninth season began, sighting “contract negotiation problems.” Let me refer to that old saying, “You never really know what you got ‘til it’s gone” or something like that. We miss Paula Abdul’s good-hearted opinions and unintentional comic relief that Kara DioGuardi could never provide.

2. Ellen’s in. The talk show host is the official replacement of Paula, and although she has no background whatsoever in music (except maybe for her regular dance routines on her talk show), Ellen Degeneres promises to give “a layman’s point of view to the show.” It was disappointing though that she wasn’t part of the panel of judges during the initial audition rounds. Instead, guest judges such as Mary J. Blige, Shania Twain, Victoria Beckham, Neil Patrick Harris, Kristin Chenoweth, Joe Jonas, and Katy Perry took the fourth seat.

3. Simon’s leaving. Yes, the infamous AI judge is taking a bow after this season to focus on the American version of X-Factor. Simon Cowell created the popular talent show for Britain, and now he’s taking it to the US. Simon will be busy producing and judging X-Factor for Fox in 2011. “I wanted to do something different,” he said. “I wanted a new challenge.” Will AI ever find a suitable replacement for the brutally honest judge? I doubt it. Other copycat reality talent shows have tried and failed.

AI fans, what do you think about Simon’s plans of ditching the show? Are you looking forward to Ellen as the new Paula?