"American Idol" judge Kara DioGuardi says she wants to spend time with the U.S. TV series' newest judge, Ellen DeGeneres, so they can bond.

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Speaking at the Media and Money conference Friday in New York, DioGuardi said she wants to hang with DeGeneres in December as part of her effort to establish an "Idol" identity for herself, The Hollywood Reporter said.

"I'm hoping the chemistry with Ellen will be great -- and a great start to the season," said DioGuardi, adding "you have to know on the show who you are and have a vision of yourself. What am I trying to represent? You'll see more of this branding myself."

DioGuardi, who joined the Fox series during its eighth season, also spoke about former "Idol" judge Paula Abdul.

Calling Abdul the "heart of the show," DioGuardi added that Abdul "nurtured and empathized. That was her role, and she was great at it."