Originally Posted by justinsain

I think you're putting too much into the judging part of the show. The Idol hopefuls first are screened by people we never see. Those that make it past them go in front of the judges to see who gets to go to LA. Then those judges pick who will be the top finalists and then the voting public picks the winner.

They used to have three judges for many seasons. Then they added a fourth last season. A girl with the musical knowledge you require. I look at Ellen as being a " token " fourth judge that will add a different perspective to the judging group much like a color commentator on a sports broadcast. She's not there for her expertise, she's there to be entertaining. She has a quick wit and should always have something to add and she knows enough about the music industry to not make any stupid decisions.

I really don't think she will be put in a position where her vote decides the fate of a contestant.