(PCM) It’s official! Nicki Minaj and Keith Urban will be joining Mariah Carey and veteran Randy Jackson (of course) at the American Idol judges’ table this season, Fox announced.
“It’s really an honor to have been invited to be a part of the American Idol family,” Urban, 44, says. “I’m looking forward to working with everyone and to seeing the same passion that I have for music in all of the participants.”
But despite announcing the official panel just days ago, there are already rumors circulating that there’s drama stirring on set…between the two ladies, of course. Carey denied the claim at a recent press conference in NYC, where the first round of auditions was underway. “It’s been two days!” she said. “A feud takes a little longer than two days!” Minaj responded, [We’re] getting along wonderfully, darling.”
Drama or no drama, this upcoming season has the potential to be one of the show’s best yet, according to veteran host Ryan Seacrest.
“It’s always exciting to start a new season, but I’m especially excited [this year],” he told E!. “I think we ended up with a powerful, diverse, colorful, knowledgeable group of judges. Now that we’ve got four, it’s going to make the circus even more fun.”
Mark your calendars! Season 12 premieres this January on Fox !
Michael Becker / FOX