Looks like the rumors are true, as American Idol sources say that season 12’s controversial judges panel will be replaced after this season.
First reported by The Wrap, sources at Idol say that Ryan Seacrest is in, but Nicki Minaj, Mariah Carey, Keith Urban, and (as previously reported) Randy Jackson are out. The changes extend all the way to the top, with longtime executive producer Nigel Lithgoe rumored to be getting the boot as well. A Fox spokesperson declined to comment.
Idol has been hurting in the ratings this season, and the judges may be to blame. Ratings are down 22 percent this season, and the show experienced a series low for its May 5 episode. Idol‘s ratings are particularly suffering in the coveted 18-49 demographic, and Fox feels they need to make some changes to win back their core audience.
Season 12’s judges have proven polarizing, and while some viewers are tuning in to see what the judges will say or do or wear this week, lots of long-time Idol fans are changing the channel because they can’t stand to watch Nicki and Mariah bicker any longer.
We learned on Friday that Randy Jackson, the only remaining original judge, would be following in the footsteps of fellow original judges Simon Cowell and Paula Abdul and moving on to other projects/abandoning a sinking ship. On the same day, Nicki said that she is “happy” on Idol, but didn’t elaborate on whether or not she would be returning.
As for Mariah, her husband Nick Cannon was asked last week about his wife’s future with the show, and while he indicated that she might consider it if some changes were made, “no one wants to be a part of something unstable.”
Despite rumors that Fox has been courting this season’s opinionated mentor Harry Connick Jr., as well as former judge Jennifer Lopez, to join the judging panel for season 13, it’s all still up in the air.
Season 12’s finale airs Wednesday and Thursday night on Fox at 8/7c.