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Kara DioGuardi resumes her life post American Idol

By April MacIntyre Sep 4, 2010, 18:12 GMT

Ciao - Kara DioGuardi - 2010 VH1 Do Something Awards - Arrivals - Palladium Theater - Hollywood, CA, USA © Kathy Maldonado / PR Photos

No surprises as Kara DioGuardi officially is out at "American Idol" next season.

Rumors are flying that producer Nigel Lythgoe prefers the three judge format.

Newlywed songwriter DioGuardi never really gelled with the group, and the removal of Paula Abdul was the beginning of a downward spiral of bad judge selections, as Kara and Ellen DeGeneres never caught on with Idol audiences.

As M&C previously reported, based on news leaks at Fox Business Network, Steven Tyler, and Jennifer Lopez are indeed slated to join Randy Jackson for the Fox series.

From FOX, the official statement:

    “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. “I am very proud to have been associated with AMERICAN IDOL – it has truly been an amazing experience. I am grateful to FOX, FremantleMedia and 19 Entertainment, as well as the cast, crew and contestants, for all they have given to me. I look forward to my next challenge, and want to thank everyone who has supported me. All the best to everyone on Season 10!”

    “Kara was a great addition to our IDOL family,” said Mike Darnell, President of Alternative Entertainment, Fox Broadcasting Company. “I’ve been fortunate to get to know her well, and have always been amazed by her eye for talent and her commitment to developing and mentoring artists. She will be missed, and we wish her continued success.”

    “Kara is one of the world’s best songwriters,” stated IDOL creator and executive producer Simon 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.”