American Idol introduces new judge Kara DioGuardi at NYC auditions, Monday, August 25. This is the first time all four judges will be together. Kara DioGuardi is an accomplished songwriter, writing songs for artists such as Gwen Stefani, Kelly Clarkson and Christina Aguilera. Chelsea Piers. Photo Credit: Janet Mayer / Splash NewsAugust 26, 2008 (Sawf News) - Songwriter and producer Kara DiaGuardia was appointed the fourth judge Monday, August 25, for the upcoming season of American Idol. While her appointment may have corrected the gender imbalance in the judges' panel, it has also stirred fears of catfights.
In a tongue in cheek remark during the first round auditions for American Idol in Manhattan New York on Tuesday, August 26, Simon Cowell said he welcomed catfights between newly appointed judge Kara DiaGuardia and a turf defending Paula Abdul.
"I love catfights," he told OK!. "I encourage them. It's no fun if everyone gets along."
"I wouldn't have recognized Kara by the way Paula described her," Simon deadpanned. "I was expecting someone maybe 50 years old, about 180 lbs., maybe a bit of gray hair."
Paula Abdul and Kara DioGuardi at NYC auditions, Monday, August 26. Photo Credit: Janet Mayer / Splash NewsSimon's wish, however, may not be easily fulfilled because Kara, speaking on Ryan Seacrest's morning show on Monday, said she thinks highly of Paula who helped her advance her career.
"Let's clear the air," Ryan explained. "Paula and Kara are great together. They used to live together and Paula helped her out years ago. Now the two of them are on the same team."
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