American Idol has roped in award-winning songwriter and producer Kara DioGuardi as the fourth judge, joining Simon Cowell, Paula Abdul and Randy Jackson in the show that has become a phenomenon worldwide.

“We are turning the heat up on Idol this year and are thrilled to welcome Kara to the judges’ table,” said American Idol creator and executive producer Simon Fuller.

“She is 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,” the Fox network quoted him as saying.

Executive producer Cecile Frot-Coutaz said, “We’ve seen from our international series that having a fourth judge creates a dynamic that benefits both the contestants and the viewers.”

Mike Darnell, President, alternative Programming of Fox, added, “For the past seven seasons, Paula has had to endure the experience of being the only woman at the judges’ table”, offering her invaluable expertise as a performer and No. 1 artist to the thousands who have competed on American Idol.

” With Kara by her side, Paula finally has some back-up and now there is going to be a lot more ‘girl power’ on the show,” Darnell said.

The season eight of the top-rated series will premier in January 2009.

One of the industry’s most sought after songwriters and producers, DioGuardi’s songs have appeared on more than 100 million records, recorded by artists like Kelly Clarkson, Christina Aguilera, Gwen Stefani, Celine Dion, Faith Hill, Carrie Underwood, Santana and Pink.

Several other big names including Britney Spears, Avril Lavigne, Pussycat Dolls, Miley Cyrus, The Jonas Brothers, Natasha Bedingfield, Jewel, Ashley Tisdale, Katharine McPhee, Taylor Hicks, Bo Bice, Clay Aiken, Ashlee Simpson, Hilary Duff, Jessica Simpson, Kylie Minogue, Enrique Iglesias, Nick Lachey and Marc Anthony have also released DioGuardi’s songs.