Mariah Carey…OUT!
Nicki Minaj…OUT!
Randy Jackson…OUT!
Seacrest…well, he’s actually in. And now, so is Keith Urban!
The Australian country crooner will be back as a judge on American Idol next season! The official announcement came from Fox chairman Kevin Reilly today, who said of Keith’s first year on the show:
“[He] did a great job last year. The fans really liked him. I think with a new panel, you’re going to see Keith’s a really funny guy. I think he didn’t get to really let his personality show.”
How could he with all the cat-fighting going on around him?!?
There are a few more seats at the judge’s table that have yet to be filled though, but early reports are that Jennifer Lopez is negotiating her deal to return to American Idol after stepping down last year!
Reilly revealed that she is indeed working toward finalizing a contract with the network, saying:
“Jennifer has been a close part of the show for a long [time], obviously she’s even been on it since she left the panel. So, there have been discussions there.”
Also said to be returning to the show is former contestant, Jennifer Hudson! One original idea even had an all alumni judges panel with J-Hud, Adam Lambert and Kelly Clarkson, but those plans fell through after Kelly backed out.
Now, insiders say even will.i.am is strongly being considered for a spot on the reality series.
So many names, so few Coca-Cola cups!
Regardless of who ends up where, Reilly assures fans that next season will focus more about the singers on stage! Not the ones being paid for their opinions! Kevin said:
“The main thing we’re doing this year is we want some judges in that are good at the job, that people like and refocus our attention on the contestants. It really became too much about the judges. We want some comfortable judges that make for good, fun, comfortable viewing experience and let’s really focus on those great stories with the kids.”
Exactly!!!
In order for this show to keep succeeding, it’s GOT to be about the music!
Season 13 of American Idol kicks off on January 15, 2014!!!
COLOR US THERE!!!
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