American Idol Adds 4th Judge: Kara DioGuardi

"We are turning the heat up on Idol this year and are thrilled to welcome Kara to the judges' table," said creator and executive producer Simon Fuller.  "She is a smart, sassy lady, and one of America's most successful songwriters.  We know she will bring a new level of energy and excitement to the show."

"We had originally intended for American Idol to have four judges," said executive producer Cecile Frot-Coutaz. "We've seen from our international series that having a fourth judge creates a dynamic that benefits both the contestants and the viewers."

Well, that turns the heat up on Paula Abdul, as they could go back to three judges just as quickly as they added the fourth. Truth be told, we know little about Kara, aside from the fact that she is a multi-Grammy nominated songwriter, having written or co-written many international hit songs.

Kara DioGuardi's songs have been recorded by artists including Celine Dion, David Archuleta, Kelly Clarkson, Carrie Underwood, Pink, Avril Lavigne, Miley Cyrus, Ashley Tisdale, Faith Hill, Santana, Ashlee Simpson, Christina Aguilera, Kylie Minogue, and many others. DioGuardi has also had much success with major Latin music artists including RBD, Laura Pausini, Enrique Iglesias, Marc Anthony, Thalía, Ricky Martin, and Carlos Santana. DioGuardi can also be heard performing backup vocals on some of these recordings.

We'll keep an eye on her and see if she adds anything to the panel of current American Idol judges; hopefully, she'll stay out of Simon's way and four won't be a crowd.

What does the Hooked on American Idol community think of Kara DioGuardi and American Idol's decision to add a 4th judge?

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