Finally, there’s some certainty about “American Idol” next season judges. Mariah Carey is officially new “American Idol” judge, replacing Jennifer Lopez.
“American Idol” has long been rumored to go through a sort of revamp. For weeks now the previous judges Steven Tyler and Jennifer Lopez were rumored not to come back for another season with the show. And earlier this month, all rumors were confirmed by their departure. It was just the beginning of a storm.
Then rumors started pouring about Adam Lambert, Charlie Sheen and Mariah Carey being courted by the show’s producers for a judge seat. For now, at least, only Mariah Carey has been officially confirmed to be one of the new “American Idol” judges. But rumor has it, Mariah Carey turned on the heat during negotiations for a whooping paycheck.
During a meeting of the Television Critics Association this Monday, Kevin Reilly, Fox Entertainment Chief, announced the big news. The five-time Grammy winner and all-time diva will join “American Idol” as judge. While Reilly kept the deal’s details under the key, he did however have Mariah Carey confirm the gig on speaker phone.
“I am so excited to be joining ‘American Idol’. This kind of all just happened really quickly” said Mariah Carey. No kidding. In less than a month, “American Idol” lost two high profile judges and scored one that doubles them in popularity.
Simon Fuller, “American Idol” creator and executive producer, was very pleased with the new addition. “We are proud to have one of the world’s greatest-ever female singers join our show. Mariah defines the word ‘Idol’ and will inspire every singer that has the honor of performing in front of her” he said.
Ryan Seacrest, “American Idol” host, welcomed the new judge on Twitter: “Welcome to the fam @MariahCarey!! When u and @nickcannon need a date night, I’m happy to strap on the double baby bjorn”.
Simon Cowell, the original “American Idol” judge, said of Mariah Carey’s new gig as judge on the show: “I think she’s going to find it difficult to say no. She’s sweet”.
Well, one thing is for sure. Now that Mariah Carey has been confirmed to join “American Idol” as judge, the show’s ratings are likely to boost. At least for the first two shows anyway.
