Hot on the heels of our report earlier today that Jennifer Lopez joining American Idol is imminent, comes news that Kara DioGuardi is stepping down from her role as a judge on the Fox reality show.
As expected, DioGuardi’s time was almost up. Speculation about her departure had been ongoing since July after first, Simon Cowell left, then Ellen DeGeneres followed shortly after.
“I felt like I won the lottery when I joined American Idol two years ago, but I feel like now is the best time to leave Idol,” said DioGuardi in a network release. “I am very proud to have been associated with American Idol — it has truly been an amazing experience.
“I look forward to my next challenge, and want to thank everyone who has supported me,” she continued. “All the best to everyone on Season 10!”
According to Idol creator and executive producer Simon Fuller, DioGuardi will be fine and go back to her songwriting roots.
“Kara is one of the world’s best songwriters,” said Fuller. “She has been passionate and committed to Idol over the last two seasons. I will miss having her on the show, but I look forward to working with her in music for many years to come.”
With only Randy Jackson and DioGuardi left on the judges’ panel, and former executive producer Nigel Lythgoe back in charge, it was clear that more rejigging was going to be done.
Jackson remains as a judge and is joined by Aerosmith’s Steven Tyler. A deal with Lopez may be inked as early as next week.
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