Keith Urban, Nicki Minaj Joining Mariah Carey, Randy Jackson On "American Idol"
After a flurry of rumors, American Idol has finally completed its judges table for the upcoming season, with the official additions of Keith Urban and Nicki Minaj.
Ryan Seacrest took to Twitter on Sunday and posted a new photo of the "staff." And to make things even more official, the notice was re-tweeted by Urban just minutes later.
The pair will be joining Mariah Carey and returning judge Randy Jackson at the table for Season 11.
Idol has had a bumpy ride over the past several months. Almost as soon as the current season ended, Steven Tyler exited the show to focus on his return to Aerosmith. Jennifer Lopez followed shortly after to restart her music career and touring.
Shortly following their departures, the announcement that Mariah Carey had joined the show shocked many. Rumors followed with names such as Enrique Iglesias and even Brad Paisley. Toby Keith was also approached about a position, but he declined.
While it seemed as though the show was interested in having a country presence at the judging table, Keith's name only began to surface over the past month.
- Keith Urban attends the 'American Idol' Judges And Host Photo Call in New York City. (Photo by Ilya S. Savenok/Getty Images)
Last Friday the speculation came to a head as Keith announced that he would not be returning to the Australian version of The Voice for a second season, all but locking up his American Idol commitment--leaving fans only waiting for the official word.
At the @americanidol judging table... Oh and @ryanseacrest is here too! instagr.am/p/Pp0nWCLeBC/
— Mariah Carey (@MariahCarey) September 16, 2012
The announcement also returns Idol to a four-judge format, which has been non-existent in the Steven/J-Lo era.
SO excited to be joining the team on @americanidol!!!!!! -KU#idoljudges
— Keith Urban (@KeithUrban) September 16, 2012
It should be a fun season! Will you be watching?
- Steven Koscik / US99.5
