Kara DioGuardi Named New AMERICAN IDOL Judge
August 25, 2008 by Kath Skerry
Move over Paula, Randy and Simon and make room for Kara DioGuardi – the newest AMERICAN IDOL judge. The Grammy-nominated songwriter will have a permanent seat at the judges table when the 8th season starts in January“We are turning the heat up on ‘Idol’ this year and are thrilled to welcome Kara to the judges’ table,” said creator and executive producer Simon Fuller. “She is a smart, sassy lady, and one of America’s most successful songwriters. We know she will bring a new level of energy and excitement to the show.”
“We had originally intended for AMERICAN IDOL to have four judges,” said executive producer Cecile Frot-Coutaz. “We’ve seen from our international series that having a fourth judge creates a dynamic that benefits both the contestants and the viewers.”
Mike Darnell, President, Alternative Programming of FOX, added “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.”
Ok let’s break this down, shall we?
AMERICAN IDOL has been taking a hit in popularity and in ratings over the past few seasons. The producers have been vocal about making some changes in order to restore the glory of IDOL. Paula is a bit of a loose cannon to say the least so they need to bring on another woman who can be the sweet and gentle mother-like figure that the contestants so desperately need, but they also need someone who isn’t a cracked out distraction to the show. Is Kara coming on board to gently nudged out Paula? The producers will say no but I’m not convinced.
I’m also not convinced that a new judge is really going to bring anything different to the show. If they really want to bring IDOL back then why not get out of the cookie cutter mold they’ve been in since Season 1. The entire show is so predictable that’s it’s becoming a cliche. If I were in charge, here’s where I would start…
- The contestants need to be signing more relevant music. That means no more theme nights with the Bee Gees, Dolly Parton, Kenny Rogers, Manilow, Neil Diamond or anyone else whose career peaked before the contestants were even born. What about contemporary artists that can really connect with the contestants?
- Simon needs to get a little time to actually talk. Less Randy and Paula and their dribble and more from the man that actually has something to contribute to make the contestants better.
- The Ford and Coke commercials are joke and should be done away with. How embarasing for everyone involved?
- Seacrest and Simon should either make out or stop talking all together during the show. It’s ego vs. ego on that stage and it’s annoying.
Seacrest should spend some time watching SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE. Take a few tips from Cat Deeley on what a good host can bring to the show. Cat keeps the show moving, keeps up the banter with the judges, and isn’t afraid to be compassionate towards the contestants (without being creepy, Seacrest).
Anyway, those are just a few of my suggestions for the next season of IDOL. Anything to add? Your thoughts of Kara DioGuardi being named a new judge?
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Wow. I’d say Paula’s days are numbered. No way to tell until you see what this woman has actually got to say, but if she’s going to be another sickeningly sweet mother figure I say no way! Let’s hope she’s constructive and honest. I love all of the changes you suggested (especially about Cat Deeley – she rocks!), but I would also add that the loser parade in the first 10 episodes or so is getting old. I’d like to see a little more talent and a little less crazy in the beginning.
michele makes a really good point about more talent up front.
even by the time the final selection show arrived, i still wasn’t invested in any contestants, and in fact, barely recalled some…
I have no doubt that she’ll give Simon a run for his money and would have to believe he was responisble for hand picking her to shake things up. I’d still love to see Paula stay – I think the press is way too hard on her and she has a alot to offer. I like her nurturing ways…I think it helps balance the group – having 4 Simons would be boring.
I first thought they were going to replace Paula. It turned out the producers decided to add a fourth judge. Though there’s gossip that Paula is pissed about this, I expect new “American Idol” judge Kara DioGuardi will add fresh inputs and better critique of the contestants’ performances.
Obviously, they are introducing this new judge (who even resembles Paula and has been described as spunky and upbeat like Paula) while Paula is still there to first gage and hopefully gain audience acceptance before they push Paula out. The producers have cleverly learned from the Today show Jane Pauly replacement fiasco from years ago. There is no other logic for the 4 judge system-too many opportunities for tie breakers.