Tag Archives: Steven Tyler

Mariah Carey Finalizing Deal To Judge ‘American Idol’

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Mariah Carey‘s songs might officially be off-limits on “American Idol”: The diva is reportedly finalizing her contract to become a judge on the singing competition.

According to Deadline, if Carey’s deal goes through, she will earn more than $17 million for one season — eclipsing Britney Spears‘ reported $15 million paycheck for “X Factor.”

After last week’s “Idol” judging shakeup, which saw Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler head for the exits after two years on the job, Carey was one of the first names rumored to be in the running. The superstar’s hubby, Nick Cannon, wasn’t sure at the time whether “Idol” had deep enough pockets. “I don’t know if they can afford Mariah Carey,” Cannon told TMZ on Sunday. “That’s a lot of money.”

Well, looks like “Idol” might have come through. This isn’t the first time Mimi has been rumored as the next “Idol” judge. In 2010, the songstress was reportedly considered for the 10th season after the show originally passed on J.Lo.

If Carey is officially onboard, one big question remains: Who will sit next to her? There’s been no word so far about whether lone remaining judge Randy Jackson will stick around for season 12, but Us Weekly reported last week that he is considering a lateral move from judge to mentor on the show.

While everyone from Nicki Minaj to Katy Perry has been proposed as Carey’s possible seatmates, one person has thrown her own name in the ring: Aretha Franklin. In an email to CNN, the 70-year-old Queen of Soul expressed some R-E-S-P-E-C-T for “Idol,” saying she’d like to come onboard for the 12th season. And according to the news outlet, she wouldn’t want to come alone, suggesting Patti LaBelle join her and “Idol” vet Jackson.

Get your “Idol” fix on MTV News’ “American Idol” page, where you’ll find all the latest news, interviews and opinions.

Britney Spears Would Have ‘Loved’ to Join ‘American Idol’

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Britney Spears may be getting pretty comfortable in her seat on “The X Factor” judges’ panel, but it seems that if Steven Tyler and Jennifer Lopez had vacated their “American Idol” seats a little sooner, Spears may have considered joining the panel on her now rival show.

In an interview with Zap2it, Spears admitted that she “would have loved” to appear on “American Idol.” But fear not, “X Factor” fans, Spears is ready for her big debut on September 12.

Spears, who recently wrapped up audition rounds, feels that she and fellow new judge, Demi Lovato, are bringing something special to the revamped show.
“I feel like it brings a whole new energy to the show, definitely,” Spears said. “Nicole [Scherzinger] and Paula [Abdul] were really great, but to have such a dramatic change, I’ll bet this even made Simon [Cowell] and L.A. [Reid] nervous.”

It seems that Spears has calmed Cowell’s nerves, but her next challenge will be to win over the viewers.

Just last week, we got our first glimpse of Spears in the judge’s seat when a 17-second promo from the show was released. Spears showed off a sassy, critical side, but she admits that she understands what the contestants are going through.

“I would be extremely nervous, probably, if I’d really never done anything before and it was my first time to perform in front of 4,000 people,” she said. “I’m sure it’s pretty nerve-racking.”

‘American Idol’ Alum Stefano Langone ‘Not Surprised’ By Judges’ Exits

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“American Idol” has some big shoes to fill with the departure of judges Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler. While many fans were surprised that Lopez and Tyler were leaving Randy Jackson alone on the judges’ panel, some, including season 10 contestant Stefano Langone, felt that the change was bound to come.

In fact, Langone, who released his first single, “I’m on a Roll,” earlier this year, told MTV News he agreed that it is time for Lopez to pursue other endeavors.

“I wasn’t surprised at all, especially with Jennifer Lopez,” Langone said. “That’s her staple in what she does in the industry, that’s how she’s carried her career throughout. Whether it was movies for a couple years, then she did music for a couple years and then she would do whatever for a couple years and then move on and master whatever she did. So she got on the biggest television show in the world, put her stamp on it and then she’s going to move on. That’s how it goes.”

Langone, who finished in seventh place during Lopez and Tyler’s inaugural season as judges, feels that this shake-up will also help reverse the show’s recent dip in ratings.

“I think it’s time for them to say, ‘OK, let’s have that same effect that we did two years ago when we brought in the judges and had the best reviews in the world,’ ” Langone said. “Why? Because everyone wants to know what Steven Tyler is going to say, everyone wants to know what J. Lo is going to say. After a couple seasons it’s like, ‘What else are you going to say now?’ So I think it’s a smart move on both parts.”

Many names have been rumored to be filling in the vacant spots, including Mariah Carey and Aretha Franklin, but Langone feels that a former “Idol” contestant would be the perfect addition to the judges’ panel.

“I think they should have past contestants,” Langone said. “There’s a whole decade of contestants and I think maybe a winner or someone who did really well. Jennifer Hudson would be amazing, Adam Lambert, Fantasia, Ruben Studdard or any of those people because they really know what we’re going through and I think that would be a cool compliment to the show.”

Since his departure from the show, Langone has been hard at work on his “upbeat” and “positive” debut album, which fans can expect in September. And even though fans may recognize him from “Idol,” he said he still has a lot to prove as an individual artist.

“A lot of people get it mixed up: Because I was on the show, they don’t see me as a new artist. The reality is, I’m a brand-new artist,” Langone said. “I’m very fortunate to be where I am, but still recognize what I need to do still.”

Should “American Idol” bring back a former contestant or winner as a judge? Leave your comment below!

49dea spotted American Idol Alum Stefano Langone Not Surprised By Judges Exits

Will Mariah Carey Or Aretha Franklin Join ‘American Idol’?

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After the announcement that “American Idol” judges Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler will not be returning to the panel for a third season, fans of the singing completion have been speculating just who could replace the pair.

While everyone from Nicki Minaj to Katy Perry has been proposed, one person almost everyone had overlooked has just thrown her name in the ring: Aretha Franklin. In an email to CNN, the 70-year-old Queen of Soul expressed a little R-E-S-P-E-C-T for “Idol,” saying she’d like to come onboard for the 12th season. And according to the news outlet, she wouldn’t want to come alone, suggesting Patti LaBelle join her and “Idol” veteran Randy Jackson.

Another big name that has surfaced as a potential replacement is Mariah Carey. However, the superstar’s hubby, Nick Cannon, isn’t quite certain “Idol” has deep enough pockets.

“I don’t know if they can afford Mariah Carey,” Cannon told TMZ on Sunday. “That’s a lot of money.”

Exactly how much does Cannon think his wifey is worth? “If they gave J.Lo $20 million, they might have to double that,” Cannon replied.

This isn’t the first time Mimi has been rumored as the next “Idol” judge. In 2010, the songstress was reportedly considered for the 10th season after the show originally passed on J.Lo.

Who do you think should replace Steven Tyler and Jennifer Lopez? Sound off in the comments below!

Jennifer Lopez Quits ‘American Idol,’ Makes Way For Mariah Carey?

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421d5 jenniferlopez Jennifer Lopez Quits American Idol, Makes Way For Mariah Carey?

By Kelley L. Carter

Jennifer Lopez has officially announced her departure from “American Idol” and now it’s rumored that Mariah Carey is in talks to replace the superstar judge.

In a tearful interview with Ryan Seacrest on Friday morning (July 13), the pop star said her plate is too full and she is bowing out of her position as judge. She doesn’t want to close the door completely, she said, but the time has come.

Steven Tyler announced his exit Thursday evening; earlier Thursday,Lopez said in a “Today” show interview that she was wrestling with the decision to stay or go.

During her radio chat with Seacrest, who also hosts “Idol,” she didn’t play coy. Lopez, who kicks off a tour with Enrique Iglesias on Saturday, said she’s been in tour mode since the “Idol” finale. Seacrest told her that since her “Today” show interview, his phone had been blowing up, but he had no idea if she was going to stay or go.

“It’s just been a really long, tough process,” Lopez said. “Ryan, you know more than anybody, I’ve been telling the truth. I really have been torn. When I signed on to ‘Idol,’ I signed on to do one year. I ended up doing two years because I just fell so in love with the show. You know that. I never felt so much part of a family of something working on it as I did with ‘Idol.’ I didn’t know I’d be so moved emotionally. It was just such a lovely surprise in my life to do it. But even last year, when I had to make the decision [to come back for a second season], it was super tough to decide. I have my movies and my music and my this and my that. It all kind of worked together for a while. But it gets complicated.”

Lopez said she started to feel very weighed down. “Something has to give. And I think that’s where I am right now,” she said.

Seacrest then asked: “So does that mean we’re co-workers or not?”

“I really was dreading this phone call with you,” she responded. “Of all the people that I’ve spoken to, I have no problem not saying anything to anybody. But with you … you’re going to make me cry,” she said, trailing off before picking back up and saying, “I honestly feel like the time has come where I have to get back to doing the other things that I have to do that I put on hold because I love ‘Idol’ so much.”

Lopez said she had a lot of other responsibilities with her many businesses. “I could keep doing ‘Idol’ for the rest of my life, but that would be giving up a bunch of other things. And, I don’t know, I feel like we’ve had an amazing run,” she said. “I feel like no matter what you guys need over there, I’m always going to be here.”

And before they finished discussing her departure, Lopez concluded: “It’s really going to be hard for me to go. It’s just one of those special things in your life that you don’t want to walk away from. It wasn’t even playing any games or wanting more money. It was just … being smart about making a business decision. I had to really be responsible in that moment. I had to weigh out a lot of responsibilities that I have.”

Get your “Idol” fix on MTV News’ “American Idol” page, where you’ll find all the latest news, interviews and opinions.

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Jennifer Lopez Tearfully Confirms ‘American Idol’ Exit

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Jennifer Lopez is leaving “American Idol.”

In a tearful interview with Ryan Seacrest on Friday morning (July 13), the pop star said her plate is too full and she is bowing out of her position as judge. She doesn’t want to close the door completely, she said, but the time has come.

Steven Tyler announced his exit Thursday evening; earlier Thursday, Lopez said in a “Today” show interview that she was wrestling with the decision to stay or go.

During her radio chat with Seacrest, who also hosts “Idol,” she didn’t play coy. Lopez, who kicks off a tour with Enrique Iglesias on Saturday, said she’s been in tour mode since the “Idol” finale. Seacrest told her that since her “Today” show interview, his phone had been blowing up, but he had no idea if she was going to stay or go.

“It’s just been a really long, tough process,” Lopez said. “Ryan, you know more than anybody, I’ve been telling the truth. I really have been torn. When I signed on to ‘Idol,’ I signed on to do one year. I ended up doing two years because I just fell so in love with the show. You know that. I never felt so much part of a family of something working on it as I did with ‘Idol.’ I didn’t know I’d be so moved emotionally. It was just such a lovely surprise in my life to do it. But even last year, when I had to make the decision [to come back for a second season], it was super tough to decide. I have my movies and my music and my this and my that. It all kind of worked together for a while. But it gets complicated.”

Lopez said she started to feel very weighed down. “Something has to give. And I think that’s where I am right now,” she said.

Seacrest then asked: “So does that mean we’re co-workers or not?”

“I really was dreading this phone call with you,” she responded. “Of all the people that I’ve spoken to, I have no problem not saying anything to anybody. But with you … you’re going to make me cry,” she said, trailing off before picking back up and saying, “I honestly feel like the time has come where I have to get back to doing the other things that I have to do that I put on hold because I love ‘Idol’ so much.”

Lopez said she had a lot of other responsibilities with her many businesses. “I could keep doing ‘Idol’ for the rest of my life, but that would be giving up a bunch of other things. And, I don’t know, I feel like we’ve had an amazing run,” she said. “I feel like no matter what you guys need over there, I’m always going to be here.”

And before they finished discussing her departure, Lopez concluded: “It’s really going to be hard for me to go. It’s just one of those special things in your life that you don’t want to walk away from. It wasn’t even playing any games or wanting more money. It was just … being smart about making a business decision. I had to really be responsible in that moment. I had to weigh out a lot of responsibilities that I have.”

Get your “Idol” fix on MTV News’ “American Idol” page, where you’ll find all the latest news, interviews and opinions.

What’s Next For ‘American Idol’?

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“American Idol” has been around since 2002 and, at its peak, was a ratings juggernaut that could not be touched. So why, a decade later, is it looking like a rookie trying to keep up with the cool kids instead of the seasoned vet that it is?

Thursday’s announcement that Steven Tyler was leaving the “Idol” judging table (and Jennifer Lopez‘s “Today” show hints that she would be following him out the door) means a complete reimagining of the show — again. Only this time, instead of being the only horse in the race like it was when Simon Cowell jumped ship two years ago, “Idol” is in a crowded sea of reality singing competitions that only seems to be getting more congested.

The good news: Starting from scratch allows “Idol” to come up with entirely unique ideas while also cherry-picking the elements that have worked best for the other shows. Here are five things Nigel Lythgoe and company need to think about moving forward:

Star Power
There’s no denying that much of the appeal of “The Voice” stems from its four superstar judges taking breaks from their in-demand careers to bicker amongst themselves and get teary-eyed over fresh-faced talent. This year, all four judges — Christina Aguilera, Adam Levine, Cee Lo and Blake Shelton — were nominated for Grammys. Talk about relevance! “Idol” should seek out current talent instead of artists who were in the spotlight years prior (sorry, Paula). “X Factor” certainly took a page from the “Voice” playbook by snagging Britney Spears and Demi Lovato for season two.

Full-Time Mentors
Speaking of “X Factor,” there’s something about “mentors” vs. “judges” … or a hybrid. Giving your panel a personal stake in the outcome of the competition instantly ups the commitment factor. We’ve been at “Idol” live shows in the past where the judges show up at the last second, talk during performances and run out of the auditorium every commercial break. Not exactly present. But if you mix a superstar ego with the chance of “winning” the competition by mentoring the eventual champ, the judges will be all ears. (According to Us Weekly, lone original judge Randy Jackson might go the mentor route next season, so “Idol” is already taking the hint.)

Production Value
The most obvious difference between “Idol” and its new rivals is production value. “X Factor” and “The Voice” are providing backup dancers, elaborate sets, full bands — basically treating every performance like it’s on an awards show. “Idol” needs to do away with the video backdrop of flames while a contestant sings “Heat Wave” and bring its contestants into the 21st century.

Real Criticism
Steven Tyler and Jennifer Lopez did one thing very well: Making all the contestants feel like they were equally talented and never made any mistakes. Does that sound like good TV? We’re not trying to make the singers cry or be mean for the sake of meanness, but they need to hear the truth. That equal-opportunity sugarcoating led to low votes for powerhouse singers like Pia Toscano and Jessica Sanchez because the “experts” weren’t making it clear to the voters at home who was nailing it and who was just so-so.

Relevancy
This goes not just for the superstar judges, but also for the contestants. It’s been a looong time since Kelly and Carrie were showered in confetti, and they’re still leaving their lesser contemporaries in the dust as they release record-setting music. It’s no coincidence that the caliber of finalists has gone down along with the judging. Simon Cowell told voters who was good and who wasn’t, and they listened. Obviously you can’t go find another Simon, but “Idol” needs to get that moral center back or it will no longer be the seasoned vet; it will be the canceled dinosaur.

Get your “Idol” fix on MTV News’ “American Idol” page, where you’ll find all the latest news, interviews and opinions.

Steven Tyler Departs ‘American Idol’ Judges’ Table

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After two seasons on Fox’s “American Idol,” rocker judge Steven Tyler announced Thursday (July 12) that he’s leaving the singing competition series to focus on his own music.

“After some long……hard……thoughts…I’ve decided it’s time for me to let go of my mistress ‘American Idol‘ before she boils my rabbit,” Tyler said in a statement. “I strayed from my first love, Aerosmith, and I’m back — but instead of begging on my hands and knees, I got two fists in the air and I’m kicking the door open with my band. The next few years are going to be dedicated to kicking some serious ass — the ultimate in auditory takeover … On Nov 6, we are unleashing our new album, Music from Another Dimension on the Earth, Moon, Mars, and way beyond the stars … ‘Idol’ was over the top fun, and I loved every minute of it … Now it’s time to bring Rock Back. ERMAHGERD.”

Tyler joined “Idol” in its 10th season, bringing his flamboyant charm and rock-star swagger to the reality show.

“It’s been a tremendous honor to have Steven — one of the most prolific artists in the world — on ‘American Idol‘ for the past two seasons,” said Mike Darnell, President of Alternative Entertainment, Fox Broadcasting Company. “He’s been a terrific judge, a true friend and great mentor to everyone involved with the show, and we know he’ll continue to be a huge inspiration to ‘Idol’ hopefuls for years to come. We are very sad that Steven has chosen to focus more on his music, but we always knew when we hired a rock ‘n’ roll legend, he would go back to the music. We all wish him all the best and would love to have him back on the show anytime.”

The news comes on the heels of fellow judge Jennifer Lopez’s appearance on the “Today” show in which she hinted that she, too, may depart the series before its 12th season bows.

“You know, I signed on to ‘American Idol‘ to do one year, and … I wound up doing the two years. And now it’s like, ‘OK, do we continue on this journey?’ ” she said. “I know everybody wants that definite ‘yes’ or ‘no,’ and … all I can let you in on is my own thought process with it, because that’s where I truly am.”

As to who will fill those vacant judges’ seats, a number of names have been churning in the gossip mill, including “Idol” runner-up Adam Lambert, Nicki Minaj, Miley Cyrus, Katy Perry, Fergie and will.i.am. Third judge Randy Jackson‘s fate on the show also remains uncertain.

Sound off on Steven Tyler’s decision to leave “Idol” in the comments below!

Get your “Idol” fix on MTV News’ “American
Idol” page, where you’ll find all the latest news, interviews and opinions.

Katy Perry, Nicki Minaj, Miley Cyrus Snared In ‘American Idol’ Judge Rumor Mill

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Giving new meaning to the phrase “throw it up against the wall and see what sticks,” the roster of A and B-list stars reportedly in the mix to spice up the judging panels and take over hosting duties on “American Idol” and “X Factor” multiplied by a factor of 10 on Tuesday (July 10).

We’ve already told you that former “Idol” runner-up Adam Lambert
 is reportedly being eyed to join the panel for the 12th season of the show. We’re not sure yet who he’d replace on the three-person panel, but Jennifer Lopez is rumored to be on her way out along with fellow two-season vet Steven Tyler. Even lone wolf “Idol” OG Randy Jackson is said to be on the potential chopping block as the show looks to shake things up to compete with the fresher celeb faces on “Factor” and “The Voice.”

E! Online tossed a few more huge names into the big names into the hopper on Monday by quoting unnamed sources saying that Nicki Minaj, Miley Cyrus, Katy Perry, Fergie and will.i.am are also being considered for the vacancies.

A spokesperson for “Idol” did not return requests for comment on the report at press time, but an “Idol” insider told the site, “no one has signed any contracts yet and producers are currently putting out feelers and setting up meetings to see who they can get … we won’t know if Randy [Jackson] and Steven [Tyler] are returning until they see who else is on board.”

It seems unlikely that such currently red-hot stars as Perry and Minaj would put everything on hold to spend half a year or more attending rehearsals, tapings and live shows for “Idol.” Cyrus is also not likely to put off her recording and movie career to join the “Idol” family, but with the Black Eyed Peas on hiatus and their solo careers in a holding pattern Fergie and frequent “Idol” mentor will.i.am could be legitimate contenders.

This type of bold-name speculation takes place just about every summer. Remember when Mariah Carey
 was touted as the next “Idol” judge after negotiations with J. Lo reportedly broke down in 2010?

The rumors got even more intense earlier this year when Janet Jackson, Beyoncé, the late Whitney Houston, Avril Lavigne and Britney Spears
 were said to be circling a gig on former “Idol” lead judge Simon Cowell’s “X Factor.” Britney, of course, ended up signing on the dotted line, along with Demi Lovato, but “Factor” still has one vacancy to fill: host.

Actually, make that two spots
 . Following the ouster of Steve Jones after the first season, Cowell is looking for one female and one male host to anchor the show and the alleged list of potential chatters is impressive, and a bit random.

E! also reported that the not-so-short list ranges from George Clooney‘s girlfriend Stacy Keibler to Khloé Kardashian Odom, Kelly Osbourne, Mario Lopez, sportscaster Erin Andrews and BET’s Terrence J.

An unnamed source told the site that Cowell is in no hurry to fill those vacancies. “They’re doing the auditions without a host so it’s no big deal they don’t have hosts right now,” the source said. “Simon really wants to take his time. The two-person thing didn’t work out the first time and he wants to make sure it works this time.”

A spokesperson for “Factor” did not return requests for comment at press time.

Adam Lambert To Become ‘American Idol’ Judge?

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The revolving judge door at “American Idol” may be spinning again and this time producers may be looking no further than the “Idol” stage for their next celebrity panelist.

With Jennifer Lopez’s return for season 12 currently a question mark, E! News is reporting that a new name is being floated as a possible replacement: season eight runner-up Adam Lambert.

The glitter-loving former “Idol” contestant has reportedly been in talks for over a month and an unnamed source said show runners think he’s the perfect match for the vacant spot. “He personifies the show, and will be a popular choice right from the start,” said an unnamed source. “He knows what it’s like to be on the receiving end of the judges’ comments, he has a human touch, and they know they can’t go wrong if they bring him on. He would be able to bring a unique perspective to the show. People love him.”

Though “Idol” has not announced whether Lopez, or fellow celebrity judge Steven Tyler, will be returning for a third season, speculation has been rampant that J Lo could be splitting after the show helped revive her once-dormant music career. Tyler made a bit splash during season 10, but his presence was much diminished during his second season and E! suggested that nobody is safe.

“Randy is great, but he’s part of the old ‘Idol,’ ” the source said of the only remaining original judge, music industry vet Randy Jackson. “They want to keep the soul of the show but have a new look, and for that reason he may well not be part of the new lineup.” A source close to Tyler reportedly told E! that the Aerosmith singer is also “up in the air” about coming back.

A spokesperson for “Idol” declined to comment on the Lambert rumors at press time.

Fox is reportedly keen to change Lopez’s mind because they believe she has a wide audience appeal and could help keep the #1 show on TV afloat as more competition hammers away at “Idol”‘s once-untouchable, but steadily deteriorating ratings. With Christina Aguilera, Cee Lo Green, Adam Levine and Blake Shelton bringing pop and country power to “The Voice” and former “Idol” lead judge Simon Cowell loading up with Britney Spears and Demi Lovato on “X Factor,” it would not be surprising if “Idol” attempted another reboot with some more contemporary blood on the panel.

“I don’t know if they can afford Jennifer, but they have let it be known that she has a guaranteed spot if she wants it,” another unnamed source told E! “She appeals to everyone so the big bosses are in favor of keeping her on.”