Reality shows are known for their shocking twists -- and sometimes these show-altering surprises occur when the cameras aren't even rolling. So far, 2009 has been a year of surprising shakeups for some of our favorite reality shows. Let's take a look at the top reality show shakeups of 2009.
Kara Joins 'American Idol' as the Fourth Judge
Fans didn't think American Idol needed a fourth judge, but Fox added one anyway! Whether we liked it or not, singer/songwriter Kara Dioguardi brought a fresh point-of-view to American Idol. Too bad four judges meant there was less time for Simon!
Toby Young Joins 'Top Chef'
© Bravo
Toby Young joined Bravo's hit show Top Chef midway through the show's fifth season, and he certainly added some spice right away. The snarky British judge started serving up peppery opinions at the judges' table each week.
Lauren Conrad Leaves the Hills
© Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images.
After years of being filmed for reality TV, The Hills star Lauren Conrad decided it was time for a change -- as in, time to get the cameras out of her face. Lauren chose to leave The Hills at the end of season five, which made room for Kristin Cavallari on the hit MTV show.
Kandi Buruss Replaces DeShawn Snow on 'Real Housewives of Atlanta'
© Bravo
By the end of season one, it became clear that DeShawn Snow was a too drama-free for the unpredictable Real Housewives of Atlanta. As a result, DeShawn was replaced by singer Kandi Buruss in the show's second season. Kandi soon became a fan favorite.
Paulina Porizkova Fired From 'Top Model'
© the CW
Paulina Porizkova was dropped from the America's Next Top Model judges panel at the end of season twelve -- and producers blamed it on the economy. "The current state of the economy has forced shows to make major budget cuts industry wide," executive producer Ken Mok said in a statement.
Paula Abdul Leaves 'American Idol,' Ellen Steps In
© Fox
Paula Abdul made headlines when she announced on Twitter that she would not be continuing as an American Idol judge. Producers weren't willing to pay the salary that Paula was demanding, so they replaced the sugary sweet singer with lovable comedian Ellen Degeneres.
Jon Dropped from 'Jon and Kate Plus 8'
© Astrid Stawiarz/Getty Images
The Jon and Kate divorce drama will likely continue well into 2010, but the biggest development in fall 2009 was TLC's decision to drop Jon Gosselin's name (and his presence, for the most part) from Jon and Kate Plus 8, renaming the show simply Kate Plus Eight. Soon after TLC announced the change, Jon made legal moves to also minus the eight from Kate Plus Eight, which would leave just Kate.
Mia Michaels Leaves 'So You Think You Can Dance' After Adam Shankman Moves Up
© Fox
In a headline-making Twitter announcement, popular So You Think You Can Dance choreographer/guest judge Mia Michaels let it be known that she would no longer be sharing her dance expertise or her excellent choreography on the Fox show. Mia's announcement came just weeks after Adam Shankman was chosen as the show's permanent third judge.
