It's Official! Mariah Carey Is Named The New Judge On American Idol
July 23 2012, Published 3:30 p.m. ET
By Debbie Emery - RadarOnline.com Reporter
It's official! Mariah Carey will be latest singer to take the judge's seat on American Idol.
Fox made the highly anticipated announcement on Monday in an email statement to RadarOnline.com, following weeks of speculation that the Glitter star would be joining the reality TV cast.
“As a singer, songwriter and producer, it’s going to be fun and rewarding to help find new talent and give back with American Idol,” Mariah said in the news release.
"I can’t wait to channel my creative energy as a part of this show which is a massive global phenomenon.”
The move comes in light of both Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler revealing that the 11th season of Idol would be their last, leaving just Randy Jackson as the only remaining judge.
Creator and executive producer Simon Fuller didn't hold back his enthusiasm for the newest member of the team. “We are proud to have one of the world's greatest-ever female singers join our show,” he said.
- The Ex-Factor! We Reveal Stars Who Invited Exes to Their Weddings — From J Lo to Angelina Jolie and Jennifer Aniston
- Divorce, Scientology and Family Dramas: Inside Jennifer Lopez and Leah Remini's Rock-Solid Friendship
- Secrets of J Lo and Ben Affleck's 'Disso Queen' $1,000-An-Hour Divorce Lawyer Revealed: From Online Divorce Business to Dissing Marriage
DAILY. BREAKING. CELEBRITY NEWS. ALL FREE.
"Mariah defines the word 'Idol' and will inspire every singer that has the honor of performing in front of her.”
According to reports, the Grammy award winning singer's salary is expected to top $12 million – the amount Jennifer Lopez got for her first season – and could be as high as $17 million.
The major shuffle on the judging panel comes after Idol suffered the largest ratings drop in the show’s history, with viewers down by 23 percent last season, reported Entertainment Weekly.
RELATED STORIES:
American Idol Reaching Out To Past Contestants To Appear On New Season
Jennifer Lopez And Steven Tyler Were Dumped From Idol, Didn't Quit
Aretha Franklin Wants To Be 'American Idol' Judge