New Season, New Judge

[gasmilicous]

Kara DioGuardi added as fourth American Idol judge

American Idol 8 is adding a fourth judge, as songwriter Kara DioGuardi will join Simon Cowell, Paula Abdul, and Randy Jackson. While the show has had guest judges in past seasons, this will be the first time in its history, although international versions of the show have four judges.

DioGuardi has written songs “recorded by Grammy award-winning artists including Kelly Clarkson, Christina Aguilera, Gwen Stefani, Celine Dion, Faith Hill, Carrie Underwood, Santana, and Pink,” and “she has been awarded 10 BMI Pop Awards for having written the most performed songs on radio,” accoridng to Fox’s announcement.

“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,” executive producer Cecile Frot-Coutaz said in the press release.

And Fox’s Mike Darnell said this would bring balance to the table, and bullshits about Paula’s value to the show, which we all know is simply about the entertaining moments provided when she does something crazy. “For the past seven seasons, Paula has had to endure the experience of being the only woman at the judges’ table. She’s been as an island of consideration and gentle criticism between Randy and Simon, offering her invaluable expertise as a performer and No. 1 artist to the thousands who have competed on American Idol. With Kara by her side, Paula finally has some back-up and now there is going to be a lot more ‘girl power’ on the show,” Darnell said.

Previously, Simon Cowell suggested there would be “a big shake up” for the eighth season, which many thought meant the firing of a judge, most likely Paula or Randy, since Simon is the only one who offers feedback anyone cares about.

[LonnaSaur]

I heard about this and am hoping some of our gasmi might weigh in and share their feelings about this. I don't know who this woman is so I don't have an opinion one way or the other, but I am not sure a fourth judge is really going to add anything to the show. I am getting kind of tired of American Idol and I don't know if this is the way to "fix" it. But I'll probably still watch.

[JasonR]

Adding a new judge certainly can't hurt. I'm at least thankful to see Simon and the producers admitting the show has gotten stale. Check out reality blurred where there is a post talking about other changes in the format and also how they're going to try to do a better job in casting people who are more interesting. I mean, that Archuleta kid can sing but damn was he boring.

What they really need to do is get rid of the lame, tired theme weeks (Broadway, 70's, 80's) and guest mentors who are old enough to be the idols' grandparents. Jeebus, I think the producers are making enough money that they can pay the rights to let the kids sing current hit songs if they want to.

[gasmilicous]

I agree. I stopped watching Idol about 3 seasons ago because I never knew the songs they sang. It was boring to me. If they change the format, I may be back...

[LonnaSaur]

Yay, Jason R! I knew you'd have some opinions to share. I agree that they need to change it up. I wonder if Paula is livid. She seems like she needs a lot of attention and a fourth judge, especially a female judge, could make for some interesting tension on the show. Maybe. I can dream!

[smith]

i agree when the format change American idol show is very interesting.

[mayzilou]

I can't help it but I don't really care for Kara and her opinions, I am not happy with the four judges. I mostly just like to hear what Simon has to say!

[doopak]

There is a rumor about Victoria Beckham Judging the American Idol

[SameShot]

I Don't think I care for Kara much.. I think adding Ellen was a good move and I still like Simon but the other two are pointless to me

[Sofbrimb73]

Watched it last night.....I dont know yet how I feel about the new judge, Kara. I love the original three....time will tell.....On again tonight.