With all the rumors that were circulating that Kara DioGuardi would be leaving American Idol, it doesn’t surprise us to learn that Fox execs have made that decision official.
Kara announced she has left the show on Friday afternoon during a press release, she said of her exit:
“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,’” adding “I am very proud to have been associated with ‘American Idol’ – it has truly been an amazing experience. I am grateful to FOX, FremantleMedia and 19 Entertainment, as well as the cast, crew and contestants, for all they have given to me. I look forward to my next challenge, and want to thank everyone who has supported me. All the best to everyone on Season 10!”
Kara’s father stepped into the rumor mill after saying on a New York State talk show that she was getting the silent treatment from the show’s producers:
“Would you believe she did not hear — and still has not heard — anything?” her dad said. “She read it the way you did and I did….Kara has a very deep career in music … she’ll be fine. Would she want to do it another year? I think so … I think at some point (she) will confront them on that.”
Show creator and producer Simon Fuller released a stated of his own, congratulating Kara for her work on the show:
“Kara is one of the world’s best songwriters,” adding “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.”
Aerosmith frontman Steven Tyler and Jennifer Lopez will now join Randy Jackson as the judging panel drops back down to three.
Are you happy or sad to officially see Kara go?
