Former "American Idol" judge Simon Cowell is speaking out following the stunning news that Ellen DeGeneres is leaving the hit show after one season.

"As I got to know Ellen, I grew to really, really like her," Cowell exclusively tells The Hollywood Reporter. "I have huge respect for her because she's always been in control of her own destiny."

Earlier Thursday, DeGeneres announced she's leaving "Idol" because it didn't feel like "the right fit" for her. Cowell left the show in May after nine seasons.

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From a Hollywood couple to celebrity scents, we're giving you a sneak peek at some of the fabulous star photos you'll see on tonight's ET Slideshow! Tune in to ET tonight for more amazing celeb snapshots!

In the first photo, Eddie Cibrian and LeAnn Rimes are snapped holding hands while leaving star favorite eatery Nobu. 
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After one season serving as a judge on "American Idol," Ellen DeGeneres is stepping down from her post.

The comedienne released the following statement to ET: "A couple months ago, I let FOX and the 'American Idol' producers know that this didn't feel like the right fit for me. I told them I wouldn't leave them in a bind and that I would hold off on doing anything until they were able to figure out where they wanted to take the panel next. It was a difficult decision to make, but my work schedule became more than I bargained for. I also realized this season that while I love discovering, supporting and nurturing young talent, it was hard for me to judge people and sometimes hurt their feelings. I loved the experience working on 'Idol' and I am very grateful for the year I had. I am a huge fan of the show and will continue to be."

She also tweeted Thursday, "Dim the lights...I've voted myself off American Idol."

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ET's own Mark Steines enjoys the beautiful Napa Valley scenery with 'Eat Pray Love' star Julia Roberts, who talks travel with her kids and the feeling of carrying a movie for the first time in a decade!

"I never really hitched my wagon to something of this magnitude -- it's either gonna sing or we're all gonna die in a fiery burst of flames," jokes Julia.

In theaters August 13, 'Eat Pray Love' finds Julia as Liz Gilbert, a modern woman who, despite having a dream husband, home and career, finds herself lost in life. Determined to wipe the slate clean and get a fresh start, she embarks on a journey of self-discovery that takes her around the globe to exotic locales ranging from Italy and India to Bali. The film is based upon the bestselling memoir by Elizabeth Gilbert. Directed by Ryan Murphy, the co-creator of "Glee," the film also stars Javier Bardem, Billy Crudup, Richard Jenkins and James Franco.

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