The last remaining “original” American Idol judge, Randy Jackson, will return to the judging panel for the FOX Television show’s 12th season. The news comes after a Summer full of reports that the Dawg could be put into a limited mentoring role on the show.
The Hollywood Reporter broke the story when a source close to the show reported that FOX was pulling negotiations with Latin artist Enrique Iglesias to fill the show’s remaining judging seat. So far, FremantleMedia and 19 Entertainment have declined to comment on what caused the negotiations to fall through. Money often has a lot to do with it.
According to one FOX News source, Iglesias was hoping to bank an eight-figure salary. Nicki Minaj is expected to bank a $10 million payday while country singer Keith Urban will earn around $4 million.
Former American Idol judge and X-Factor boss Simon Cowell congratulated Jackson Monday afternoon. “Just heard Randy is back on ‘Idol’. Right decision,” Cowell tweeted.
With the return of Jackson, American Idol will be returning to a four judge panel. The show last tried a four judge during the 2009 and 2010 season but decided to trim the panel back to only three judges the last two seasons.
For the 12th season of American Idol it looks like Mariah Carey, Randy Jackson, Keith Urban and Nicki Minaj will round out the judging panel. ‘Idol’ host Ryan Seacrest and executive producer Nigel Lythgoe will return to the show for its upcoming season as well.
