Jackson's main concern with all the Paula talk is that viewers might forget what "American Idol" is all about: the singers.

"In terms of the show, I'm sure it's pretty much a distraction, because people get a little sidetracked with that," he said about rumors swirling around the judges. "I mean, there are contestants. 'Wait a minute, this is a singing competition!' [Laughs.] Not to belittle what we do, because I think the show is completely about the four of us judges and Ryan and the contestants, but let's also focus on what we're judging and what the actual more meat of the show really is: It's about finding that next superstar talent."

New judge Ellen DeGeneres is now helping Jackson and company track down that superstar talent, which has made for some surreal moments on the post-Paula panel.

"The whole thing started with me, Ryan, Simon and [Paula]," Jackson said. "She was one of our best friends, and she still is. I miss that. We look down the table and go, 'Wait a minute, where's Paula?' And I expect to hear something from my left ear, and I go, 'Wait a minute, that doesn't sound like Paula!' [Laughs.] It's gonna take a little getting used to. We're really sad about that. But, you know, welcoming Ellen to the fold is a good look."


MTV