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kara dioguardi

The recasting of American Idol continues. 

With two judges who have already left the Fox singing competition, the network announced Friday evening that the third, Kara DioGuardi, "retired" and will not return for the 10th season of the show. There was much speculation that DioGuardi, who had been with the show for two seasons, is leaving. 

Simon Cowell, the judge of origin, left after Idol winner crowned on May 9 and Ellen DeGeneres announced in July that she would not return for a second season. 

That leaves three possibilities open seats on the panel of four judges, with only Randy Jackson, one of the judges of origin remains. The speculation was widespread about the replacement, with stars like Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler of Aerosmith at the origin of the strong buzz. 

DioGuardi, a songwriter nominated for a Grammy who wrote hits for Kelly Clarkson, Gwen Stefani and Christina Aguilera has joined the show when it expanded to four members two years ago. 

In a statement released by Fox, DioGuardi said: "I felt like I won the lottery when I joined American Idol two years ago, but I feel that now is the best time to leave Idol. I am very proud to have been associated with American Idol he has really been an incredible experience. I am grateful to Fox, FremantleMedia and 19 Entertainment, as well as distribution, the crew and the candidates, for all they gave me. I look forward to my next challenge and want to thank everyone who supported me. All the best to everyone on Season 10! 

The statement offered no details about any specific reason for his departure. Neither the executive nor the producers of Fox Idol are available for interviews Friday. 

In another recent decision Idol longstanding executive producer Nigel Lythgoe returned to the series after two seasons away, promising a "facelift" for the most-watched series on television. Although still dominant in the ratings The Idol lost 9% of its audience last season and was criticized for what some considered an uninspiring field of finalists. 

In an interview in August, Lythgoe said in favor of three judges, but would be open to four if it brought the right key and humorous contradiction. He said he wanted the jury sorted, then turn to where he says he belongs: on the performers. 

Judges can be appointed quickly if Idol intend to have comprehensive training in place for the hearings next singer, who could begin later this month. 

Fox and Idol executive producers hired DioGuardi with the declaration of the network. 

Kara is a great addition to our family Idol, "Fox alternative programming chief Mike Darnell said." I had the chance to learn about its well, and I was always amazed by his eye for talent and commitment to the development and supervision of the artists. She will be missed and we wish him continued success. " 

Idol creator Simon Fuller said: "Kara is one of the best songwriters in the world. She was passionate and dedicated to the idol during the last two seasons. I'll miss having her in the series, but I'm looking forward to working with her in the music for many years to come. " 

Cecile Frot-Executive Producers Coutaz and Ken Warwick has also offered their congratulations. 

"As one of the most songwriters proclaimed in the United States, Kara has brought a wealth of experience and a unique perspective to American Idol. We are very grateful for her time on the show, and we wish him nothing but the best in his future endeavors, "Frot-Coutaz said. 

"Anyone who knows Kara knows she brings an incredible amount of passion, creativity and humility to everything she does," said Warwick. "It was a joy to work with her on Idol for the last two seasons, and I'm eager to see what she does next."