Posted by Adam

Wednesday August 19, 2009

Kelly Clarkson is going back to her American Idol roots — she’s set to become a guest judge on the hit show.

The Since You’ve Been Gone singer — who won the first season of the TV talent show in 2002 — will join Simon Cowell, Randy Jackson and Kara DioGuardi for auditions next week.

“Kelly is beyond excited to get back to the show that started it all,” a source said.

Clarkson joins the growing ranks of celebrity judges on Idol, including Mary J. Blige, Victoria Beckham, Joe Jonas and Shania Twain, who have all stepped in to fill the spot left by Paula Abdul.

The FOX show returns to television in January 2010.

Abdul confirmed earlier this month that she won’t be returning to the hit TV talent show.

“With sadness in my heart, I’ve decided not to return to Idol,” the 47-year-old wrote on her Twitter page. “I’ll miss nurturing all the new talent, but most of all being a part of a show that I helped from day one become an international phenomenon.

“What I want to say most, is how much I appreciate the undying support and enormous love that you have showered upon me. I do, without any doubt, have the BEST fans in the entire world and I love you all.”

Tags: american idol, kelly clarkson