Fox put a stop to the endless rounds of rumors surrounding the new American Idol judge’s panel by announcing Sunday Nicki Minaj and Keith Urban will join Mariah Carey and Randy Jackson on the 12th season. Ryan Seacrest will return as host. The announcement came just hours before the first set of Idol auditions started in New York.
"I am thrilled about this year's judges panel," said Mike Darnell of Fox. "With an unparalleled star like Mariah, fan-favorite Randy, chart-toppers like Nicki and Keith and our incomparable host Ryan, we've put together one of the most exciting judging panels around."
Carey officially joined the judge’s table in July just one week after Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler announced they were leaving after 2 seasons. "I'm excited to help find and nurture new talent,” she Tweeted at the time.
Urban released a statement Sunday saying it is an “honor” to join Idol. “I'm looking forward to working with everyone and to seeing the same passion that I have for music in all of the participants,” the country singer said.
The twelfth season of American Idol will premiere in January.
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