It’s official: Kara DioGuardi is leaving the American Idol show. Songwriter Kara DioGuardi happens to be the most recent judge on the American Idol judging panel to leave this year. Added to the departures of Ellen DeGeneres and Simon Cowell, Randy Jackson is the only judge left for this season after Kara’s departure.
Having the chance to be on the show was “an amazing experience” stated DioGuardi, who has written for singers including Kylie Minogue.
“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,” stated DioGuardi in a statement from Fox. “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!”
Already, comedienne Ellen DeGeneres quit in July, and last May Simon Cowell left the show to work on a US variation of the UK program The X Factor.
Two celebrities being connected with the vacant positions are Jennifer Lopez and Areosmith’s Steven Tyler. Only record producer Randy Jackson continues on as one of the original judges.
It is not yet known whether or not this coming season of American Idol will have a three or four judge panel.
Ever since the first series in 2002, the finale in May achieved the lowest rating with 24.2m turning on their sets to witness former paint salesman Lee DeWyze win the top spot. Nevertheless, the show continues to be the most watched TV show in the US.
