Kara DioGuardi Announces Official Exit From "American Idol"

Kara DioGuardi is now the third judge from last season that is out. She announced her decision to leave the hit reality music series on Friday.

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"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,'" said DioGuardi in a joint statement with FOX. "I am very proud to have been associated with 'American Idol' - it has truly been an amazing experience. I am grateful to FOX, FremantleMedia and 19 Entertainment, as well as the cast, crew and contestants, for all they have given to me. I look forward to my next challenge, and want to thank everyone who has supported me. All the best to everyone on Season 10!"

The Fox show has already seen the departure of frontrunner Simon Cowell and comedian Ellen DeGeneres, who stayed with the show for only one year before quitting.

DeGeneres replaced former judge Paula Abdul after contract negotiations reportedly went awry in 2009. Randy Jackson is now the only original judge left on the series.

Replacements for Cowell and DeGeneres have not yet been named, but rumors of Steven Tyler and Jennifer Lopez have been running rampant for weeks.

Fans will have to stay tuned for future announcements, but the show will return to Fox in January of 2011.