Kara DioGuardi Talks ‘American Idol’

Grammy-Nominated songwriter Kara DioGuardi talks with Access about joining “American Idol” as a fourth judge, working with Paula Abdul, Simon Cowell and Randy Jackson, and gaining respect from wannabe hopefuls throughout the competition.

Access Extended: Access’ Nancy O’Dell Lights Up Vegas Magazine

Grammy-nominated songwriter Kara DioGuardi talks with Access about joining “American Idol” as a fourth judge, working with Paula Abdul, Simon Cowell and Randy Jackson, and gaining respect from wannabe hopefuls throughout the competition.

The Express: December 15, 2008

“American Idol” gets a makeover, adding a fourth judge, but what else has changed? Heath Ledger appears to be the frontrunner to win the Golden Globe. Plus, Jennifer Hudson cancelled her first video shoot since the murder of her family.

Nigel Lythgoe Responds To Paula Abdul’s ‘Idol’ Allegations

Former “American Idol” producer Nigel Lythgoe responds to criticism by Paula Abdul that the show put her in danger by allowing alleged stalker Paula Goodspeed to audition.

Michael Johns’ ‘Christmas’ Carol

An original “American Idol” contender, Michael came to the Access Hollywood set to perform his family inspired holiday song, “Another Christmas.”

Access Extended: Paula Abdul Opens Up On Fans Death

In this extended interview, “American Idol” judge Paula Abdul speaks out for the first time about how the death of a fan near her home has affected her.

Michael Johns Performs ‘Another Christmas’

Michael Johns performs his latest song, “Another Christmas” on the Access stage. The single will be available Dec. 9 on iTunes and proceeds benefit ALS research and the Red Cross.

Michael Johns’ Christmas Song For Charity

Former “Idol” Michael Johns talks with Nancy O’Dell about his new Christmas song, “Another Christmas”, which will be available Dec. 9 on iTunes. Proceeds will benefit ALS research and the Red Cross.

Dish Of Salt: Spring TV Preview 2009

“American Idol” returns in just a little more than a month with a new judge. Plus, Joss Whedon, who created “Buffy The Vampire Slayer” and “Angel,” brings his new show, “Dollhouse,” staring Eliza Dushku

‘Idol’s’ Ryan Seacrest & David Archuleta Reunited!

It was somewhat of an “American Idol” reunion as David Archuleta and Ryan Seacrest are finally back together again at the Cedar’s Sinai Annual “Road to a Cure” Gala honoring Ryan Seacrest.

AUDIO PREVIEW: Michael Johns - ‘Another Christmas’

Check out this sample of “Another Christmas,” a new song former “American Idol” contestant Michael Johns is releasing December 9 on iTunes, with the proceeds benefitting ALS and The Red Cross.

Stars Come Out For Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade

David Archuleta, Kristin Chenoweth, New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg and many more attend the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade as huge crowds flock to the streets to see the famous floats, giant balloons and marching bands.

Dish Of Salt: American ‘Idol’ Stars’ Holiday Concert

Former “American Idol” stars Kimberley Locke, Diana DeGarmo, David Hernandez and Chikezie are teaming up to perform some of your holiday favorites.

Ryan Seacrest Talks ‘Momma’s Boy’ & Paris Hilton TV Series

Ryan Seacrest, along with his mom Connie, talk about his new show, “Momma’s Boys” during a promotional film shoot. Plus, Ryan dishes details on his new TV show with Paris Hilton!

‘American Idol’ Welcomes New Judge Kara DioGuardi

Newly added “Idol” judge Kara DioGuardi, a songwriter with hits including collaborations with Britney Spears, Faith Hill and the Jonas Brothers, gets acquainted with the “American Idol” judges at the New York City tryouts.

New ‘Idol’ Judge On Britney Spears

Hear what new “Idol” judge, Kara DioGuardi, thinks about Britney’s chops.

David Cook Talks New Album

David Cook, at the 2008 Teen Choice Awards, tells Access when people can expect to see his new album hit shelves.

Idol Tour Rehearsals Go Green

Kristy Lee Cook keeps America beautiful as she and her fellow “Idol” top ten embark on their “American Idols Live Tour.” And we discovered this tuneful bunch try and mix a little green with their music.

Dish Of Salt: ‘American Idol’ Auditions: San Francisco

Laura “Dish of Salt” Saltman heads to San Francisco for the first round of “Idol” auditions only to find 8 thousand screaming fans and a few people that wanted to actually sing too.

Hollywood Radar: July 21, 2008

Crazy crowds from all over the world head to San Francisco for the start of Season 8 “American Idol” auditions. Holly Robinson Peete, along with husband Rodney, hosted Hollyrod’s Designcare event.

All Access: ‘American Idols’ Live Tour 2008

Take a behind-the-scenes look at one of the most h

Dish Of Salt: David Cook & Kristy Lee Cook Talk ‘Idol’ Tour

Access’ Laura Saltman gets all the info about the upcoming “American Idols Live” tour.

Dish Of Salt: Chikezie & Brooke White Talk ‘Idol’ Tour

What can fans expect on the “American Idols Live” tour? Chikezie and Brooke give Access the scoop!

Dish Of Salt: Jason Castro & Syesha Mercado Talk ‘Idol’ Tour

Jason and Syesha talk about how excited they are to hit the road, what songs they will be singing on the tour and what they think of David Cook being called on of People’s sexiest bachelors.

‘American Idol:’ What’s Next For Luke Menard & Asia’h Epperson?

Luke and Asia’h talk with AccessHollywood.com’s Laura Saltman about leaving “American Idol,” what it has meant to them to be a part of the show and what do they think they will be doing next.

Access Express: May 28, 2008

The express delivers a happy Madonna. Patrick Swayze makes progress and who was David Cook’s “Idol” date? Plus, was Kirstin Dunst depressed?

Access To An ‘Idol’ Dream

“American Idol” may have just named their latest winner, but 15-year-old Neil Davis is the true “Idol.” Diagnosed with Leukemia at just 8-years-old, Neil relapsed last year and is now undergoing treatment.

‘Idol’ 8 Visit Access

The “Idol” top 10 — minus the Davids — stop by Access to share their “Idol” secrets!

David Cook Crowned New ‘American Idol’

Over 31 million tuned in to see David Cook be crowned the next “Idol.” Shaun Robinson was with him just moments after his big win.

‘Idol’ David Cook Performs On The Access Stage

Fresh off his “American Idol” victory, David Cook performs “The World I Know” on the Access Hollywood stage.

Dish Of Salt: David Cook Takes The ‘Idol’ Quiz

AccessHollywood.com’s Laura Saltman puts “Idol” winner David Cook’s “Idol” knowledge to the test.

Backstage With ‘Idol’ Winner David Cook

Access’ Shaun Robinson is backstage with “American Idol” David Cook who reveals he took the stage preparing to come in second.

Backstage With ‘Idol’ Runner-Up David Archuleta

“American Idol” runner-up David Archuleta is backstage with Access’ Shaun Robinson and talks about his love for “Idol” winner David Cook.

Who Will Be The Next ‘American Idol?’

One thing is for sure, the next “American Idol” will be a David, but which one? Shaun Robinson is backstage at the Nokia Theatre with the remaining two “Idol” finalists to find the answer.

Paula Abdul Talks ‘American Idol’ Finale

Will teen David Archuleta or rocker David Cook take home the prize in the in the season finale of “Idol?” “American Idol” judge Paula Abdul fills us in on her choice for the win.

‘Idol’ Analysis: Duel Of The Davids (May 15, 2008)

With Syesha gone, it’s down to the dueling Davids. Music guru David Foster gives his take on what he thinks will happen next!

Syesha Mercado’s ‘Idol’ Viewing Party

Friends and fans of “American Idol” contestant Syesha Mercado gather at a local restaurant in Sarasota, Florida to give her support during the competition.

Sanjaya Malakar Performs On ‘American Idol Extra’

Teen pop sensation Sanjaya Malakar performs a cover of Willie Nelson’s “Always on My Mind” on “American Idol Extra.” The performance can be seen on the Fox Reality Channel on May 15, 2008.

Booted ‘Idol’ Jason Castro Performs On The Access Stage

Fresh off his “American Idol” dismissal, Jason Castro performs a cover of The Lovin’ Spoonful’s “Daydream” on the Access Hollywood stage.

Dish Of Salt: Booted ‘Idol’ Jason Castro

Booted “American Idol” contestant Jason Castro talks with AccessHollywood.com’s Laura Saltman about his controversial dismissal from the show.

Ryan Seacrest Talks ‘Momma’s Boy’

Access catches up with “American Idol” host Ryan Seacrest backstage at KIIS-FMÂ’s 10th annual Wango Tango music festival where he discusses his new reality show “Momma’s Boys.”

Booted ‘Idol’ Brooke White Performs On The Access Stage

Brooke White performs “You’re So Vain” on the Access Hollywood stage.

‘Idol’ Analysis: The Final Four

Nancy O’Dell is joined by our “Idol” expert and Grammy Award winning music producer David Foster to take a closer look at last night’s final four performances.

Dish Of Salt: NBC Summer Press Day 2008: Simon Cowell

Simon Cowell sits down with Laura “Dish of Salt” Saltman to talk about season seven of “American Idol.”

Dish Of Salt: Booted ‘Idol’ Brooke White, Part II

In part two of our interview with AccessHollywood.com’s Laura Saltman, Brooke White discusses the hardest thing about being on “Idol” and her self-confidence (or lack thereof).

Dish Of Salt: Booted ‘Idol’ Brooke White, Part 1

In part one of our interview with AccessHollywood.com’s Laura Saltman, Brooke White discusses how she felt about getting booted off of “Idol,” what she thinks the real world will be like after “Idol,” and her music dream

‘American Idol’s’ Top 4 Attend ‘The Beatles LOVE’ In Las Vegas

The season seven final four “American Idol” contestants — David Cook, Jason Castro, David Archuleta and Syesha Mercado — attend “The Beatles LOVE” by Cirque du Soleil at the Las Vegas Mirage Hotel & Casino.

Simon Cowell’s Kiss-And-Tell

Meet Simon Cowell’s one-time neighbor and his first kiss, Tara McDonald-Smith. She is now married and living in Petaluma, California with her three kids. But Tara still remembers Simon as being smooth even back then.

All Access: Clay Aiken Talks New Album, Part I

Access Hollywood’s Billy Bush talks with Clay Aiken about where he draws inspiration from for his new album and what life has been like since “American Idol.”

Fans Gather For ‘American Idol’s’ Brooke White

Brooke White’s friends and fans gather to show support for her latest “American Idol” performance at “Living Spaces,” a furniture store that has plenty of seating and big screen TV’s in Van Nuys, Ca.

Music Video: Ferras - ‘Hollywood’s Not America’

Check out this music video for “Hollywood’s Not America,” from Ferras’ debut album. As heard on “American Idol.”

Dish Of Salt: Neil Diamond Talks ‘Idol’

Legendary singer, songwriter and performer, Neil Diamond, talks with AccessHollywood.com’s Laura Saltman about his experience as a guest mentor to the remaining five “American Idol” contestants.

Booted ‘Idol’ Carly Smithson Performs On The Access Stage

Booted “American Idol,” Carly Smithson, performs Heart’s “Alone” on the Access Hollywood stage.

Access Extended: Booted ‘Idol’ Carly Smithson

Booted “American Idol,” Carly Smithson, gives the low-down on her tattoos, pregnancy rumors and her post “Idol” plans.

David Foster’s ‘Idol’ Analysis (April 23, 2008)

Music guru David Foster talks with Nancy O’Dell about who he thinks made the right moves and who will be going home.

Booted ‘Idol’ Kristy Lee Cook Performs On The Access Stage

Her “American Idol” dreams may be over but she’s not done yet. Booted “Idol” Kristy Lee Cook comes to the Access Hollywood stage to perform “Anyway.”

Access Extended: Booted ‘Idol’ Kristy Lee Cook’s Fiance Talks Proposal

A newly engaged Kristy Lee Cook with her fiance, Andy, talk about the details of their steamy sauna proposal with AccessHollywood.com’s Dish of Salt, Laura Saltman.

Dish Of Salt: Booted ‘Idol’ Kristy Lee Cook

Kristy talks about her departure from “American Idol.” Plus, the newly engaged Kristy shares the steamy “I do” details of her engagement to AccessHollywood.com’s Dish of Salt, Laura Saltman.

David Foster’s ‘Idol’ Surprise For Michael Johns

He might have gotten the boot from “American Idol,” but Michael Johns had a nice surprise waiting for him when he visited Access, as music guru David Foster invited the Aussie to play in his one-night concert in Las Vegas.

Booted ‘Idol’ Michael Johns Performs For Access

Fresh off of his “Idol” dismissal, Michael Johns comes to the Access Hollywood stage to perform “Ain’t No Sunshine When She’s Gone” with the help and constructive criticism of our “Idol” expert David Fo

Access Extended: Booted ‘Idol’ Michael Johns Comes To Access

Booted “American Idol” Michael Johns comes to the Access Hollywood stage to talk with Nancy O’Dell about his recent dismissal from the show.

David Foster On Michael Johns’ ‘Idol’ Elimination

Our “American Idol” expert, record producer David Foster, says that he wasn’t at all surprised that Michael got the boot in this exclusive interview!

David Foster’s ‘Idol’ Picks (April 9, 2008)

Music guru David Foster talks with Shaun Robinson about who he thinks will be the next to go home on “American Idol.”

Access Extended: ‘Idol Gives Back’ - Part I

The “Idol” judges talk about the star-studded charity event. Plus, did Ellen DeGeneres backing out have any impact on the show?

Booted ‘Idol’ Ramiele Performs For Access

Booted “American Idol” Ramiele Malubay comes to the Access Hollywood stage to perform “You Don’t Have To Say You Love Me” one final time.

Ramiele Malubay Talks Getting ‘Idol’ Boot

Laura Saltman talks with Ramiele about her “Idol” experience and finds out what she has planned for life after “Idol.”

Access Extended: Booted ‘Idol’ Chikezie Performs

Chikezie comes to Access Hollywood and performs “If Only For One Night.”

Access Extended: Chikezie Talks Leaving ‘Idol’

Chikezie talks about his ‘Idol’ experience and tells Access Hollywood what he thinks he will be doing next.

Access Extended: Booted 'Idol' Amanda Overmyer Performs On The Access Stage

After getting the "American Idol" boot, Amanda Overmyer comes to Access Hollywood to perform "I Hate Myself For Loving You."

Dish Of Salt: Booted 'Idol' Amanda Overmyer

Laura Saltman catches up with Amanda to find out what's next for the singer. Plus, what did she think about everyone coming up to hug her when she got the boot?

Amanda Overmyer's 'American Idol' Viewing Party

Access hits the viewing party for "American Idol" finalist Amanda Overmyer. As Amanda she sings onstage in Hollywood in front of millions, her close friends, fans and relatives in her hometown of Lafayette IN., root for her to go all the way.

On-Air-Answer: What Are David Archuleta's 'Idol' Chances?

Music guru David Foster gives his thoughts on whether or not David Archuleta has what it takes to be the next "American Idol."

Access Extended: Frenchie Davis Discusses How 'Idol' Treats Strippers

Frenchie talks about life post "American Idol" and her gay fan base. She goes on to say that she feels David Hernandez's stripper past and her online porn past should have been held to the same standard.

Access Extended: Booted 'Idol' David Hernandez Performs On Access Stage

Fresh off his "Idol" departure, check out David Hernandez as he performs "In The Midnight Hour" on the Access Hollywood stage.

Dish Of Salt: Booted 'Idol' David Hernandez

One week after being booted from "American Idol," Laura Saltman talks with David Hernandez and finds out what steps he plans to take next in the entertainment business.

Booted 'Idol' David Hernandez: 'I Have No Regrets'

David Hernandez's 'American Idol' dream ended Wednesday night — one week after it was revealed that David was a male stripper.

AccessHollywood.com Weekend Promo: 03/14/08

Laura Saltman catches up with "American Idol" Season 6 participants to find out — where are they now?

Dish Of Salt: 'American Idol Extra' - Garet Layne Johnson

The "singing cowboy" makes his way off the ranch to talk with Access' Laura Saltman about his busy music career. See him perform on "American Idol Extra" premiering on the Fox Reality channel March 13.

Dish Of Salt: 'American Idol Extra' - Jonathan & Kenneth

Access' Laura Saltman catches up with last season's best buddies Jonathan Jayne & Kenneth Briggs to see what life's been like post-"Idol." See their performances on "American Idol Extra" premiering March 13 on the Fox Reality chann

Dish Of Salt: 'American Idol Extra' - William Hung

Access' Laura Saltman finds out where the former "American Idol" contestant William Hung is now and get a front row seat to his performance on "American Idol Extra" airing March 13 on the Fox Reality channel.

Brooke White's 'American Idol' Viewing Party

In her hometown of Van Nuys, friends and fans gather at Robbie Mac's Pizza to show support for Brooke White's first Top 12 performance on 'American Idol.'

Danny Noriega Gets The 'Idol' Boot

He's not going to win 'American Idol,' but Danny Noriega is already getting post 'Idol' offers. But which one will he take?

Kady Malloy & Danny Noriega Talk Leaving 'American Idol'

Danny and Kady talk with AccessHollywood.com's Laura Saltman about getting the "American Idol" boot and what it was like going to the top 12 party — but not being in the top 12.

Dish Of Salt: 'American Idol' Top 12 Party, Part 2

Access' Laura Saltman gets exclusive interviews with Top 12 "American Idol" finalist Carly Smithson, Jason Castro, Chikezie, David Cook and Kristy Lee Cook on the red carpet before they head inside for a night of celebrating. See what they had t

Dish Of Salt: 'American Idol' Top 12 Party, Part 1

On their way to the party, the Top 12

Carly Smithson's 'American Idol' Viewing Party

While former bartender Carly Smithson hits the stage on "American Idol" in Hollywood, Access spends an evening with her admiring friends, fans, and co-workers at the Irish pub "The Field" in San Diego where she formerly worked.

On-Air-Answer: Haley Scarnato Tells Stalker Story

Haley has learned first hand what the price of fame can be. She recounts her experience in Nashville when someone kept breaking into her home and stealing her things.

'America Idol' Extra: Melinda Doolittle

Melinda recounts an exciting experience of meeting President Bush. Plus, Melinda talks about how "American Idol" is a win-win situation for all who are involved.

'America Idol' Extra: Haley Scarnato

Haley talks about moving to Nashville, Tennessee after finishing the "American Idol" tour and cutting her first single.

'America Idol' Extra: Sanjaya Malakar

Sanjaya talks about moving to California with his sister to pursue music. Plus, is Sanjaya still getting the offers to act and is that something he would consider?

'America Idol' Extra: Bo Bice

Bo talks about his new album that has just been released called "See The Light." Plus, Bo goes into how he is able to balance family life with his busy career.

'America Idol' Extra: LaToya London

LaToya talks about being a part of the "American Idol" family and how it is something for life. Plus, LaToya talks about touring with the production of "The Color Purple," and what an amazing experience it has been for her.

Access Extended: Booted ‘Idols’ Talk Leaving The Show

Robbie Carrico, Jason Yeager, Alexandrea Lushington and Alaina Whitaker lament being given the “Idol” boot and talk about what they think they went wrong.

Josiah Leming Performs 'One Last Song' On The Access Stage

Booted "Idol" Josiah Leming performs his song "One Last Song" on the Access Hollywood stage.

Josiah Leming Performs 'To Run' On The Access Stage

Booted "Idol" Josiah Leming comes to the Access Hollywood stage to perform his song "To Run."

'American Idol' Top 24 Semi-Finalists Party: Arrivals

Only hours after learning that their lives have been forever changed, the "American Idol" Top 24 semi-finalists come together for their first star-studded red carpet event and join alums Ace Young, Justin Guarini, Leah LaBelle and KayCee Stroh.

'American Idol' Top 24 Semi-Finalists Party: Ace Young Performance

Grammy nominated singer and songwriter Ace Young joins the Top 24 along with other "American Idol" alums to perform the first single, "Scattered," off of his new album.

Grammy Arrivals: Fantasia

Shaun Robinson talks with Fantasia about fashion, Broadway, her nominations and how her life has changed since "American Idol."