American Idol Adds Fourth Judge

American Idol is getting a fourth judge this season, marking what the New York Post calls the biggest change TV’s top show has ever undergone. Songwriter Kara DioGuardi will join Simon, Paula, and Randy, in a move producers say they always intended. All of Idol’s international counterparts feature four judges. “Having a fourth judge creates a dynamic that benefits both the contestants and viewers,” said the executive producer.

The 37-year-old DioGuardi, who has written dozens of hit songs for the likes of Kylie Minogue, Mark Anthony, Hillary Duff, and Kelly Clarkson, among others, will join the show when the new season kicks off in January. (More American Idol stories.)