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Kara DioGuardi Talks Simon Cowell’s Newfound Soft Side

Kara DioGuardi is in her second year as a judge on “American Idol” and with the seniority, she’s found a chum in Brit Simon Cowell.

“This year, I don’t know what is happening, he’s leaning into me,” Kara told Access Hollywood. “He’s liking me more.”

Top 12 Becomes 11 As One ‘American Idol’ Contender Is Sent Home

“American Idol’s” Top 12 said goodbye to one of the women on Wednesday night’s elimination show.

‘American Idol’s’ Top 12 Tackle Rolling Stones Catalog; Cowell Says Bowersox Loses Edge

Crystal Bowersox lost her lead on “American Idol” on Tuesday night to a 19-year-old contender who judge Kara DioGuardi said gave a performance that offered hints of Season 8’s most dynamic big stage entertainer, Adam Lambert.

Simon Cowell Records PSA In Support Of Animal Welfare

Simon Cowell may be Mr. Mean on television, but in life, the British music mogul is showing his softer side, throwing his support behind the World Society for the Protection of Animals.

Simon recently pledged his support for the WSPA and its campaign to get international recognition for animal welfare, by recording a PSA for the group.

Kara DioGuardi On Big Mike’s ‘Idol’ Chances

Simon Cowell may have said the “American Idol” Season 9 crowd is Crystal Bowersox’s “to lose,” but Kara DioGuardi is betting on Michael Lynche.

The brunette judge visited “The Tonight Show” on Monday night, where she told Jay Leno that the competition is a little more open after last week’s shocking elimination of Lilly Scott, but “Big Mike” is definitely standing out.

Report: Paula Abdul Lines Up New ‘Star Search’ Gig

Paula Abdul may have hooked her “Star” to ABC.

The former “American Idol” judge has been tapped to headline a reboot of “Star Search” for the network, according to Entertainment Weekly’s Michael Ausiello.

Teen Charged In Susan Boyle Home Break-In

A teenager has been charged for the alleged break-in and theft that occurred at Susan Boyle’s house in January.

“A 16-year-old youth has been arrested and charged in connection with a theft that happened at a property in Blackburn,” a spokesman for Lothian and Borders Police in Scotland told People of the January incident at the singing sensation’s home.

Nigel Lythgoe: Elton John ‘Absolutely’ The Best To Replace Simon Cowell

If you ask former “American Idol” executive producer Nigel Lythgoe, there’s only one candidate who can replace Simon Cowell after the longtime judge’s departure – Elton John.

“He’s absolutely it,” Nigel told The Hollywood Reporter’s Showbiz 411 blog of the legendary British rock pianist.

‘Idol’s’ Crystal Bowersox Talks Staying True To Herself, Keeping Her Dreadlocks

“American Idol” is months away from crowning a winner, but already, one woman has emerged as the contestant to beat.

During her third week of live competition on Tuesday, judge Simon Cowell told Crystal Bowersox, the 24-year-old dreadlock sporting mom from Elliston, Ohio, the competition was “yours to lose.”

But what does she herself think about the hype?

‘Big Mike’ Lynche Draws Cheers, Tears On ‘Idol’

It was the guys’ turn to take the stage on Wednesday night’s “American Idol,” as the show is just one day away from revealing the final 12 contestants who will vie for the crown.

Two more men will be sent packing on Thursday night, but if the “Idol” judges have anything to say about it – Michael Lynche won’t be one of them.

“Big Mike” brought the house down – and brought Kara to tears – with his performance of Maxwell’s “This Woman’s Work” – a performance which Simon dubbed the best of the season so far.

Crystal Bowersox Runs Away With Ladies Night On ‘American Idol’

Crystal Bowersox once again stood out as the “One To Watch” as Week 3 of live competition began on “American Idol.”

The remaining eight women took to the stage on Tuesday in hopes of securing a place in the elusive Top 12 (the Top Ten compose “Idol’s” touring group), but it was the dreadlocked 24-year-old mom from Elliston, Ohio, who had the judges going gaga.

Simon Cowell Opens Up About Engagement, Talks Fatherhood Plans

Simon Cowell opened up about his engagement to makeup artist Mezhgan Hussainy during an appearance on “The Tonight Show With Jay Leno” on Monday night, and the “American Idol” judge also revealed he is thinking of one day becoming a father.

Jay asked Simon to set the rumors straight about his reported engagement not long after the interview began.