Access Exclusive: Kara DioGuardi ‘Disappointed' By Paula Abdul's ‘Idol' Comments

Following Paula Abdul's comments that she doesn't think the idea of four judges on "American Idol" was such a good idea, Kara DioGuardi, who joined "Idol" this year as the fourth member on the judging panel, is firing back.

"Paula has a right to her opinions, but I was disappointed by her comments, and hurt that she did not address them to me in person," Kara said in an exclusive statement to Access Hollywood.

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In an interview with OK! magazine, Paula said while she "gets along great" with Kara, she doesn't think adding a new judge was what was best for the FOX show.

"We tried four judges before and it doesn't work. It takes up so much time for each of us to give our opinion that it slows down the pace of the show," Paula told OK!.

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Nevertheless, Kara is happy to be a part of the "Idol" family and is pleased with what she brings to the judge's table.

"I am proud of my contributions to the show, and remain excited about the rest of the season," Kara told Access.

Following Paula's comments to OK!, a rep for the "Straight Up" singer attempted to clear the air.

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"Paula's quote was taken out of context," the rep told Access. "She was referring to previous 'guest judges' from past seasons. Not Kara."

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MORE ACCESS ON THESE TOPICS: American Idol - Reality TV - Kara DioGuardi - Paula Abdul - TV

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