This season of "American Idol" is one for the books, and we're not talking about the "Pants on the Ground" phenomenon.

Personnel shake-ups have turned attention to the judges. Paula Abdul is out, Simon Cowell is making his way toward the exit and Ellen DeGeneres made her debut Tuesday as Abdul's replacement.

With her appointment, it's time to wonder whether the show has jumped the shark.

Despite a decline in viewers over the past couple of years, "American Idol" still easily wins the ratings race every week.

Bringing on Ms. DeGeneres looks like an obvious effort to keep it that way.

With Mr. Cowell's days numbered -- he announced last month that this is his last season on "Idol" -- the judge table is vulnerable.

The show needs someone with his bite, honesty and knowledge.

Here are some names -- some rumored to be under consideration to fill Mr. Cowell's shoes:

Former champs Carrie Underwood and Kelly Clarkson are too deep in their own projects to return as a full-time judge, but Kris Allen would be a respectable choice, and so would a runner-up such as Bo Bice or Clay Aiken.

Howard Stern is being eyed as a new "American Idol" judge, and frankly, the no-holds-barred radio host could make a better Simon Cowell than Mr. Cowell. But we can't imagine Mr. Stern even being remotely interested in such a family-friendly gig except as a goof, or as a tactic in renegotiating his radio contract.

If you're going to go for a comedian, go with someone with unabashed gusto, some teeth. Ms. Griffin would be sure to tell contestants the brutal truth.

LaToya Jackson's off-the-wall wackiness would be a nice homage to Ms. Abdul, and maybe we'd even get a performance of her '80s song "Heart Don't Lie."

If you're going to go with a talk show host, why not Ms. Williams? She spent more than 20 years on radio and helped a number of stars break through.

Imagine the costumes, sunglasses and cattiness he'd bring.

Of all the guest judges who have filled Ms. Abdul's spot, we think Ms. Perry has been the most constructive and enjoyable. If her career weren't so hot, she'd probably sign up.

This celebrity blogger has strong opinions when it comes to music, and his mouth would be sure to stir up a lot of trouble.

Everybody loves this veteran pop star, and once she's done dealing with her vocal polyps, we think she has earned a place on this panel.

Instead of wasting time trying to sing about designer pumps, she might better serve herself with this high-profile gig.

This legendary music industry executive, once married to Mariah Carey, can afford to be a take-no-prisoners, Simon-style judge. There are few industry vets left who are as revered as he is.

Imagine the scandal if Sharon Osbourne were to jump ship from NBC's "America's Got Talent" to Fox's "American Idol." She's already in the family, having served as a judge on UK talent show "The X Factor," produced by Mr. Cowell.

TV columnist Rob Owen's Tuned In+ is featured exclusively on PG+, a members-only web site from the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. Our introduction to PG+ gives you all the details.