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After weeks of rampant rumours, the Fox network has finally confirmed the list of celebrities to join the upcoming American Idol season 12 judging panel.
Following much speculation, Randy Jackson is set to return to the show, remaining the only original judge. He will be joined by Mariah Carey, Nicki Minaj and Keith Urban.
Last-minute final negotiations with Minaj and Urban, which was continuously regarded as gossip, was finalised just as the show’s first auditions were scheduled to begin in New York.
“Nicki’s an unbelievably captivating international phenomenon who has made an indelible mark on rap and pop. And Keith is another great addition to Idol – he’s one of the biggest stars in country music and I know that our fans and contestants will fall in love with him,” said Mike Darnell, president of Alternative Entertainment at Fox.
“With an unparalleled star like Mariah, fan-favourite Randy, chart-toppers like Nicki and Keith and our incomparable host Ryan, we’ve put together one of the most exciting judging panels around.”
Mariah Carey was courted by several shows, including X Factor, before finally deciding the time was right to sit on Idol’s judging chair.
With Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler ending their two-season stint and new series joining the singing competition genre, Fox is hoping that the influx of major star wattage will lure viewers back to American Idol when it returns in January.
Fox Entertainment chairman Kevin Reilly said earlier this summer: “Although we finished the season at the top again, our ratings were down. Not being the only game in town, we need to keep things fresh.”
