The Race to Replace Katy on 'Idol': Jon Bon Jovi Wants $25 Million — as Kelly Clarkson Rules Herself Out
It’s been mere weeks since Katy Perry ended her seven-year run as a judge on American Idol. But there’s already a competition brewing over who gets to take her place on the singing competition, RadarOnline.com has learned.
For her part, Katy, 39, thinks country standout Jelly Roll would make a great addition to the panel alongside Luke Bryan, 47, and 75-year-old Lionel Richie — and he’s game.
“Of course!” the Wild Ones singer, 39, said in a recent interview, joking, “I’ve accepted the job, and they haven’t offered it.”
Other past show mentors in consideration for Katy's open spot include Jon Bon Jovi, 62, who reportedly wants $25 million to join the cast next year, and Meghan Trainor, 30.
“That is my dream job, and I have emailed three awesome people who work in that world,” Trainor revealed during an appearance on Watch What Happens Live With Andy Cohen. “I have begged for this job.”
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But could the ABC show want to mix things up with an past Idol winner in a judge’s seat for the first time ever?
Season 6 victor Jordin Sparks, 34, has declared on social media, “I’m putting my name in the hat!”
Meanwhile, Season 1 champ Kelly Clarkson, 42, turned down the possibility of doing the LA-based gig on June 10, explaining that she’d already promised to prioritize her family life in NYC.
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“So many names have been thrown into the ring,” an insider admitted to Life & Style. “It’s going to be a really tough decision!”
“Producers are having a hard time deciding,” an insider added. “They want someone who checks all the boxes: star quality, a huge fan base, relatability and, preferably, no skeletons in their closet.”
All that matters to Katy? “I want a truth teller,” she said of the next judge. “I want someone that is not afraid to tell the truth in a graceful way.”