After seven seasons, American Idol is getting a new judge. Fox has announced Grammy-nominated songwriter and former The One: Making a Music Star judge Kara DioGuardi will serve as Idol's new fourth judge and join Paula Abdul, Simon Cowell and Randy Jackson as a regular member of the show's eighth-season judging panel.
"We are turning the heat up on Idol this year and are thrilled to welcome Kara DioGuardi to the judges' table," Idol creator and executive producer Simon Fuller said. "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."
Pop Idol, the since-canceled British reality competition American Idol was based on, featured four judges (one of whom was Cowell) during both its seasons, which aired in 2002 and 2003. DioGuardi's addition represents the completion of a similar plan for American Idol, according to the show's producers.
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The 2008 Summer Olympics closing ceremony (see photos here) was held at the Beijing National Stadium, also known as the Bird's Nest. It was directed by Chinese filmmaker Zhang Yimou and began at 8:00 pm on August 24, 2008 (the post-introductory main ceremony began at 8:08 pm). The number 8 is associated with prosperity and confidence in Chinese culture.
The musical acts included:
British singer Leona Lewis and Led Zeppelin guitarist Jimmy Page (with association football player David Beckham making an appearance)
Hong Kong singer Andy Lau
Hong Kong singers Kelly Chen and Joey Yung, Chinese American singer Wang Lee Hom and South Korean entertainer Rain
Han Hong
Jackie Chan
The 2008 Olympic Closing Ceremony also included the handover of the games from Beijing to London. Guo Jinlong, the Mayor of Beijing handed over the Olympic flag to the Mayor of London, Boris Johnson, and there was a performance organized by the London Organising Committee for the Olympic Games (LOCOG)
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The latest medal tally from the Beijing Olympic Games can be fount at the following sites: 2008 Beijing Summer Olympics Medal Count/Tally and Latest Medal Count/Tally of the 2008 Beijing Olympics . Check it out regularly to keep updated on the results of the various sports competitions ongoing in Beijing.
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