It seems “American Idol” has been successful enough for Fox that it can now afford to add a 4th judge. Grammy-nominated songwriter Kara DioGuardi will join the show in January 2009 to sit alongside Paula Abdul, Simon Cowell and Randy Jackson.
According to Mike Darnell, President of Alternative Programming at Fox, DioGuardi will add “girl power” to the show and Abdul will no longer have to endure being the only woman at the judge’s table, as she has been for the past seven seasons.
"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. We’ve seen from our international series that having a fourth judge creates a dynamic that benefits both the contestants and the viewers," said executive producer Cecile Frot-Coutaz.
American Idol is created and executive-produced by Simon Fuller, founder of 19 Entertainment; and executive-produced by Cecile Frot-Coutaz, CEO, FremantleMedia North America, Inc. and Ken Warwick, Executive Producer, FremantleMedia North America, Inc.
