If you're kinda sick from Paula's antics, Simon's sarcastic comments and Randy's dog pound but you just can't stop yourself from watching American Idol anyway – don't worry, things are about to change.

The 8th season of AI is showing this January – and fans of the show will be given a breath of fresh air with the addition of its new judge: Kara DioGuardi. The 37-year old beauty is a songwriter, record producer and singer **who wrote songs for the who's who in the industry: from **Celine Dion to the Jonas Brothers!

When asked how she felt when she was offered the role as the 4th AI judge, Kara was quoted as saying: "I almost fell off the chair!"

I'm a little nervous. I'm going to be a straight shooter and say it like I see it and maintain that philosophy. I'm somebody who's really honest and gives an opinion. If I feel I need to be hard, I will be. And if I feel I need to be more nurturing, I will be.
-Kara Elizabeth DioGuardi

I'm personally thrilled with the news. Simon, Paula & Randy have been together as judges of the show for the longest time – and their flagging ratings these past few seasons should be given a boost with the **introduction **of this new judge.