American Idol Season 8 Preview: Changes Abound!

The biggest change that will greet American Idol viewers during the show's upcoming eighth season? Undoubtedly, new judge Kara DioGuardi.

But recent reports indicate that a number of changes are in store for TV's biggest sensation. According to Access Hollywood, they include:

• Fewer awful singers during auditions;
• A top 36, as opposed to the usual top 24 semifinalsts;
• A Wild Card round that will give eliminated singers a chance to return;
• The elimination, due to the economy, of Idol Gives Back.

A new judge is one of many changes American Idol will undergo during its eighth season.