CONFIRMED: Kara DioGuardi Leaves Idol
Sep. 3 2010, Published 6:30 a.m. ET
The worst kept secret in television is official: Kara DioGuardi has left American Idol.
The demise of the record producer, who joined the Idol as a judge in the series’ eighth season, was confirmed late Friday.
In a statement, DioGuardi said: “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.
“I am very proud to have been associated with American Idol – it has truly been an amazing experience.”
While the decision only become official on Friday, speculation of her firing has swirled around the show’s much-talked about shake-up for weeks.
Her father, Republican senate candidate Joe DioGuardi, even went public on a political television program, revealing that his daughter learned of Fox’s sudden decision in a newspaper report.
AUDIO: Nigel Lythgoe - Potential American Idol Judges Negotiating, Expect Decisions 'Within 3 Weeks'
"She read it the way you did and I did," Joe said on August 12. “Would you believe she did not hear -- and still has not heard -- anything?"
Fox has yet to announce replacements for their departing judges, including Ellen DeGeneres and Simon Cowell.
EXCLUSIVE: Simon And Ellen Not Talking To Each Other
Jennifer Lopez, Steven Tyler and Jessica Simpson have all been rumored replacements.
The show’s creator, Simon Fuller, bid farewell DioGuardi, via statement.
- Johnny Depp's Longtime Pal, Legendary Rock N' Roll Guitarist Jeff Beck Dead At 78
- Prince Harry & Meghan Markle’s Tell-All Netflix Series Delayed To 2023 After Attacks On ‘The Crown’
- Dianne Feinstein Refuses To Retire Before Her Senate Term Ends In 2024 Despite Colleagues Arguing She Is 'Mentally Unfit To Serve'
VIDEO: Ellen Wows On Her American Idol Debut
“Kara is one of the world’s best songwriters,” Fuller said.
“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.”
RELATED STORIES:
Ex-American Idol Contestant Arrested For Girl Fight At Hollywood Bar
VIDEO: The American Idol Judge Mess: J-Lo's Out? Steven Tyler Says "Lay Out The Bread"