AceShowbiz -

As "American Idol" begins the Hollywood weeks of season 9, Kara DioGuardi shows up on the latest issue of Maxim magazine. No longer sitting behind the desk, Kara shows off her bikini-clad figure in some playful poses. The March issue which features Kaley Cuoco in the front cover will be on sale soon.

In the last season of "Idol", Kara debuted her bikini body on national television when she appeared after Bikini Girl contestant. This year, she joked that she wanted to top it off by getting naked. "But that could actually have the opposite effect, so I think I'll keep my clothes on," she told Maxim. "... I would say that was definitely the first time... and probably the last."

She also talked about "Idol" including why the executives selected her at the first place. "They were looking for a fourth judge, and they wanted to add someone who was in the industry," she revealed. "Plus, I'm known to be ballsy and outspoken. They knew I wouldn't clam up and go under the desk. Although I did want to, believe me!"

Regarding her chemistry with Simon Cowell, Kara admitted, "It's hard for me to say something negative to a contestant without giving something constructive back, and that annoys Simon. But they're kids, and you feel for them - especially when they have a story, like they've overcome cancer or something."

Missing Paula Abdul who quit the show last year, Kara said she was happy enough with Ellen DeGeneres coming as replacement. She said, "I was like, 'Rock on!' Are you kidding? The thing with Ellen I don't think everybody understands is that she's a huge music lover. That's what you need to be on Idol."

Photos of Kara DioGuardi captured by Chris McPherson can be found on Maxim.