Kristin Chenoweth on board as American Idol guest judge

Could the departure of Paula Abdul from American Idol actually result in a revitalization and renewal of the Fox monster hit? I ask that question because in the past couple of days, guest judges have been announced to sit in Paula's place and I'm absolutely psyched by the choices. The other day it was How I Met Your Mother star Neil Patrick Harris. Today, Pushing Daisies' Kristin Chenoweth has been snagged as an American Idol guest judge. She's currently filming auditions in Orlando, Florida.

This is not just great news, it's fun and exciting, too. Kristin is absolutely adorable and hilarious. Having interviewed her, I found her completely delightful and engaging. She's also a performer with vast experience in music, theater, film and TV. I mean it. Just take a look at just some of her credits (and they don't include her upcoming guest role on the new Fox comedy/musical Glee:

TV movies: Annie, The Music Man
TV series: The West Wing, Pushing Daisies, Kristin
Broadway shows: You're A Good Man, Charlie Brown (Tony award), Wicked
Movies: Four Christmases, Bewitched
Records: Let Yourself Go, A Lovely Way To Spend Christmas

Like I said regarding Neil, Kristin brings a world of experience to the judge's chair. She's been through auditions and knows what it takes to sing when the music starts and you have to make it happen. She's also funny. I don't expect her to offer commentary that's bland or pedestrian.

So, is it possible that Paula's departure is actually energizing the American Idol producers to think outside the box. Tell us what you think by taking this TV Squad poll: