Following weeks of speculation it has been confirmed that judge Kara DioGuardi is leaving 'American Idol'.
People reports that DioGuardi said: "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'.
"I am very proud to have been associated with 'American Idol' - it has truly been an amazing experience."
Many names have been linked with becoming new judges on the show, including Jennifer Lopez, Elton John, Shania Twain, Steven Tyler, Chris Isaak and Harry Connick Jr.
