New judge for 'American Idol'

'American Idol' bosses have decided to add a new judge to the mix for the eighth season.

Grammy-nominated songwriter Kara Diogaurdi will be joining Paula Abdul, Simon Cowell and Randy Jackson on the panel.

“We are turning the heat up on Idol this year and are thrilled to welcome Kara to the judges’ table,” the show’s creator and executive producer Simon Fuller said in a statement on www.americanidol.com.

“She’s 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.”

'American Idol' will return in January 2009.