Kara DioGuardi Leaving American Idol: It's Official!

After the rumored news that she was fired from "American Idol", the judging stint of  Kara DioGuardi  is officially over!

DioGuardi said in a statement, “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.”

Joining her leaving this season are Ellen DeGeneres and Simon Cowell.

It was reported that deal with Jennifer Lopez as the new judge will be finalized next week.

[Photo courtesy by Jason Merritt/Getty Images]