American Idol: Harry Connick Jr., J.Lo Begin As Judges, Randy Jackson Back As Mentor

Piano ace Harry Connick Jr and superstar singer Jennifer Lopez will both be on the judges panel as American Idol begins taping its' 13th season Tuesday, RadarOnline.com has learned.

The show will commence filming in Boston, and in addition to the superstar duo, we've learned that former judge Randy Jackson will fill Jimmy Iovine's shoes in the role of mentor to the contestants.

“Surprise, surprise!" Randy said in a statement Monday. "I am so happy to be back as part of this amazing show that started it all."

The show is looking to rebound from a downward slope in the ratings the past few years, with Simon Cowell leaving the judges' panel, and a tough competitor in NBC's The Voice.