Former American Idol Judge Kara DioGuardi Will Judge Again for Bravo

Erstwile American Idol judge Kara DioGuardi just landed a new gig on TV, and it looks as if she's suited for the role: She'll be judging a songwriting competition series on Bravo called Going Platinum. It's a step down from the visibility and splendor of Idol, to be sure, but is this the perfect fit for a woman whose solid critiques felt out of place alongside Simon Cowell's sarcasm?

First, more specs: The winner of Going Platinum, which is set to debut in 2011, wins "a $100,000 cash prize, a publishing deal with Sony, a trip to BMI Songwriters' The Writing Camp and a recording deal with RCA/Jive." Better yet, the judges -- not voters -- decide who wins the grand prize. Sounds like a musical, Brill Building version of Project Runway's format and prize package. And Jewel hosts! I think I'm fine with that.

In a statement, DioGuardi said: "Hit songs are the backbone of the music industry, and as a publisher, nothing excites me more than finding new songwriting talent. I am happy to be a part of a show that helps up and coming songwriters pursue their dreams, while giving the public a look into the creative process."

Anyone else thrilled about this show? We've yet to see a musical competition series truly explore the creative process. Making the Band came closest, but if you bring up Making the Band in public, you become invisible to society. DioGuardi's judging style has always been more akin to Top Chef's Gail Simmons than Randy Jackson, so with more time to talk and a little Bravo editing, she should flourish here.

There's even a chance Going Platinum will fill the void in the network's schedule left by Project Runway. Work of Art came close, but Bravo is still in need of a series that's as sensual, cool, and addictive as Runway. Here's hoping the dulcet tones of acoustic guitars, constructive judges, and struggling singer-songwriters do the trick.

· Kara DioGuardi Named Judge on 'American Idol'-Inspired Show [THR]