Mariah Carey, Nicki Minaj, Keith Urban and Randy Jackson Officially Judging 'American Idol'
Sept. 16 2012, Published 2:09 p.m. ET
It's official! American Idol fans will no longer have to wonder who will be sitting on the judges panel when the season begins. As long suspected, Nicki Minaj and Keith Urban will join Mariah Carey. Rounding out the panel? Idol vet Randy Jackson, who decided to stay in his role as judge.
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Executive Producer Simon Fuller stated, “With the exciting addition of Mariah Carey, Keith Urban and Nicki Minaj, alongside Randy Jackson, American Idol's star power has never been so great. For this we have to thank the ongoing commitment and belief of Fox and the dedication and focus of the Idol production team. We have all been together since the very beginning and we are focused on making Idol Season 12 the best ever.”
Ryan Seacrest could hardly contain his excitement, and took to Twitter to spread the word. (It must have been hard keeping quiet on the specifics for so long!). "It's official, your new #IdolJudges are @Mariah Carey, @NickiMinaj, @KeithUrban @Yo_RandyJackson!" he wrote. He also posted an instagram pic of the whole gang, and holy crap, Mariah looks gorgeous! Just saying.
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"So excited to be joining the team on @AmericanIdol!" Keith Tweeted.
Ryan Tweeted, "Everyone gave a heartfelt toast about being on the show after we ate last night. Can't wait to see the first contestants today."
That's right, auditions begin today, in New York City!
Who would you be the most excited to see in person? And who are you most excited to see every week?