Kara DioGuardi Will Return to "Idol"

Kara DioGuardi has confirmed that she will return as a judge on Fox's "American Idol."

According to Monsters and Critics, the Grammy-nominated songwriter will capitalize on her background as a songwriter and producer to support contestants throughout the ninth season of the reality competition, premiering January 2010.

DioGuardi joined the show last season as the fourth judge on a panel that also includes Simon Cowell, Paula Abdul and Randy Jackson.

"We are so happy to welcome back Kara for her second season with 'Idol,'" creator and executive producer of the show Simon Fuller said. "She is a breath of fresh air, and her passion for music and her understanding of talent is invaluable."

After the last season of "American Idol" ended, DioGuardi returned to songwriting and producing. She has upcoming tracks with Colbie Caillat, Carrie Underwood and Rascal Flatts, as well as a song for the feature film "Camp Rock 2."

The 38-year-old also recently returned from her honeymoon after marrying Mike McCuddy, a general contractor, in a seaside wedding in Prospect Harbor, Maine.