LOS ANGELES, California (X17online) - Fox announced today that songwriter Kara DioGuardi will join Simon Cowell, Randy Jackson and Paula Abdul as a judge on the network's hit reality television show, American Idol.

In a statement, American Idol creator Simon Fuller called DioGuardi "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."

DioGuardi has written songs for Kelly Clarkson, Ashlee Simpson, Faith Hill, Santana, Celine Dion, Gwen Stefani and Kylie Minogue.

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