Photo: Beau Grealy for GQ Australia
The latest spate of rumors has country guitar slinger Keith Urban joining the American Idol judges table, along with pop/hip-hop star Nicki Minaj.
The Hollywood Reporter writes that both Urban and Minaj are “closing in” on deals to join the popular reality singing competition, ostensibly to replace the departing Steven Tyler and Jennifer Lopez. Urban will reportedly receive $3-4 million for his participation in the show, and Minaj will be pulling in closer to $8 million. Superstar vocalist Mariah Carey has already been confirmed for a third spot.
Previously, Urban served as a judge on the first season of the The Voice Australia, which premiered in 2012. The show has been renewed for a second season in 2013, but there is no word on whether Urban will return as a judge.
In recent months Brad Paisley was rumored to be in talks for the show but dropped out over salary discussions. Toby Keith was also reportedly being considered for a spot.
As for the Idol judging panel, the fate of remaining original member Randy Jackson remains undecided. Show producers have supposedly been considering the four judge option, but Jackson isn’t necessarily a lock for the fourth spot. Alanis Morrissette is also among the list of stars being considered, and Katy Perry rejected a lucrative offer to participate.
Urban’s representatives could not be reached for comment.
