2 New Judges? Eh...Not So Much

Well it's now official, Jennifer Lopez is returning to American Idol after 1 season off. Keith Urban returns to the panel as the lone remaining judge from last season. And Harry Connick Jr was officially confirmed as the final judge of the panel for the 2014 season.

Kevin Reilly, the network's chairman of entertainment, issued the following statement:
“ 'American Idol' has always been about discovering the next singing superstar, and next season our judging panel will deliver a most impressive combination of talent, wisdom and personality to do just that: Jennifer Lopez, the triple-threat global superstar who loves and whom 'Idol' fans love; Harry Connick Jr., a bona-fide musical genius and fantastic 'Idol' mentor whose honesty and expertise can help turn these hopefuls into stars; Keith Urban, a multi-Grammy-winning artist who was such a positive force on the show last season. We are also very excited to have our friend Randy Jackson now in a new role as mentor, and the captain of our team – the heart and soul of 'Idol' –Ryan Seacrest returns as host. 

I have been wanting Connick Jr as a judge for several seasons, since Simon Cowell left. He has a good sense of humor, he knows what he is talking about, and he has the ability to be a straight shooter. Let's hope his great mentoring over the years will carry over to the judge's table.

I am not thrilled about the return of Jennifer Lopez, but we know it could be worse. I hope that she is more critical and real this time around. I do feel her last season with the show was better than her first, let's just hope that she doesn't start all over again. If she starts commenting on 'how beautiful' the contestants looks I might need to mute my TV.

I really didn't mind Keith Urban last season. I do feel at times he got a little repetitive and wasn't as critical as I would have liked, but he was a good choice to remain at the judge's table.


So there ya have it. We will be updating this page when there is any more noteworthy news. So see you soon.

3 Gone...1 To Go?

It's now official. Both Nicki Minaj and Mariah Carey have joined fellow judge Randy Jackson as now former American Idol judges. In a move that surpised no one Carey and quickly followed by Minaj announced their departure from the show. I question them "quitting" rather than being fired, but they have to save face somehow I guess. They both had a few good moments, some questionable ones and obviously the very memorable fight and then incredibly awkward tension throughout the season. So I guess that's one way to be memorable.

We still have no word from Keith Urban who does want to return. I am indifferent on him. Take a look at their statements below. We will be back on the blog as soon as we hear any confirmation about new judges and/or Keith Urban's role on the show.

Mariah Carey's Statement/Tweet:
 "W/ global success of "#Beautiful" (#1 in 30+ countries so far) @MariahCarey confirms world tour & says goodbye 2 Idol.

FOX on Mariah Carey:
Mariah Carey is a true global icon — one of the most accomplished artists on the planet — and we feel extremely fortunate that she was able to bring her wisdom and experience to the American Idol contestants this season,” noted a joint release from FOX, FremantleMedia and 19 Entertainment. “We know she will remain an inspiration to Idol hopefuls for many seasons to come

Nicki Minaj's Statement:
“Thank you American Idol for a life changing experience! Wouldn’t trade it for the world! Time to focus on the Music!!! Mmmuuuaahhh!!!”

FOX on Nicki Minaj:
 “Nicki Minaj is a superstar who brought a level of honesty and passion to American Idol and who had a tremendous positive impact on so many contestants this season. Given her extremely busy career, we understand and respect her decision and wish her the best.”