American Idol Gets Another Judge

Move over, Simon! This season, American Idol is adding a fourth judge into the mix.

Kara DioGuardi, American Idol's newest addition, is the co-owner of Los Angeles-based record company Arthouse Entertainment, now producing music for Season 7's runner-up David Archetula. She is also American Idol's youngest judge at 37 and a Grammy-nominated songwriter. Her songs have been recorded by such artists as Kelly Clarkson, Christina Aguilera, and Gwen Stefani. Recent Top 40 hits include Stefani's "Rich Girl," Aguilera's "Ain't No Other Man," and Clarkson's "Walk Away."

DioGuardi has many hopes for her role as judge, including bringing many ideas to the table and finding the next big star, but she is confident that she will fit in with the other judges. What may help her in the fitting-in quest, however, is her longtime friendship with fellow judge Paula Abdul.

American Idol's eighth season premieres in January on Fox. Let the music and drama begin.