"It's gonna be so much fun working on @AmericanIdol," said Carey via her Twitter account. "As a singer-songwriter, I'm excited to help find and nurture new talent." Fox announced the news at the Television Critics Association's summer press tour in Beverly Hills. The company also confirmed that Jennifer Lopez, who judged Season 10 and 11 of "Idol," will not return for the upcoming season. Judge Randy Jackson will remain with the show.
As previously reported, Steven Tyler — best known as the frontman and lead singer of Aerosmith — will also depart from the reality program. "American Idol" runner-up and former Wicked star Adam Lambert is reportedly in talks to join the series.
The reality show is hosted by Ryan Seacrest. Former judges have included Paula Abdul, Simon Cowell, Kara DioGuardi and Ellen DeGeneres. The singing program has been a launching pad for several performers who have played Broadway.
