Kara DioGuardi's 'Splendid' Pal Cowell

Kara DioGuardi claims her and Simon Cowell get along "splendidly".

The judge and songwriter - who stars on the US reality show 'American Idol' alongside the music mogul - has denied rumours they don't get along and revealed she was surprised by how supportive he has been since she joined the show two years ago.

She said: "It surprises me when Simon agrees with me. I think to myself 'Is something wrong? Is someone paying you?' And then I realise 'Oh you already have enough money.

"We've been getting along splendidly. I have mad respect for Simon. I kind of look up to him. He's a bit older than me. way older than me - like 30 years!"

The 39-year-old star - who also appears on the judging panel alongside Ellen DeGeneres and Randy Jackson - has admitted she initially struggled to feel accepted on the show.

She told People.com: "A lot of people still ask, 'who is that girl sitting next to Ellen and Simon?' "

The songwriter - who has written hit singles for stars such as Pink, Ashlee Simpson and Gwen Stefani in the past - claimed the other judges had "inspired" her to do more, although she denied plans to make a record for herself.

She said: "I really love being a songwriter and I don't want to be that judge up there plugging albums. I want the concentration to be on the kids. Being around the other judges really inspires me. I feel like the sky is the limit. I am just a songwriter who is lucky enough to be on 'American Idol.' "