Paula Abdul "Concerned" About Fourth Idol Judge

Paula Abdul has mixed feelings about Grammy-nominated songwriter Kara DioGuardi being added as a fourth judge on Fox's American Idol.

On Phoenix's 104.7 KISS FM Johnjay & Rich radio show Monday, she said she was excited but added, "I am concerned about the audience and acceptance. Time will tell. We'll see."

She said producers hired DioGuardi because they "wanted to try a change.

"They always tried for a fourth judge because it followed the format of the original show, Pop Idol," Abdul said. "We haven't had much luck with that working, but we're gonna give it another try."

Asked if she, Randy Jackson and Simon Cowell have sat down with DioGuardi to test their chemistry, Abdul replied, "Nope," and laughed.

What happens if she and Jackson vote one way, but DioGuardi feels differently?

"That's gonna be weird if it's a split decision," Abdul said. "I'm sure Simon will get to make the final [call]."

"It takes the fun out of all the hard work I do to push those kids through," she added.

DioGuardi will be involved in "everything" (including live shows), said Abdul, who is in New York City for Idol auditions. "We shoot tomorrow."

The show premieres in January.

See photos of Idol's most controversial contestants.

DioGuardi's songs have appeared on more than 100 million records by the likes of Christina Aguilera, Gwen Stefani, Celine Dion, Faith Hill, Pink, Britney Spears, Miley Cyrus, the Jonas Brothers, Jessica Simpson and Nick Lachey.

The songwriter's work has also been used by past Idol contestants, including Katharine McPhee, Kelly Clarkson, Carrie Underwood, Taylor Hicks, Bo Bice, and Clay Aiken.

See photos of where your favorite Idols are now.

"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," Fuller added.

Tell Us: Do you think the show needs a fourth judge?

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