Fox Entertainment president Kevin Reilly opened his executive session at the Television Critics Association with the news: Mariah Carey will be on the American Idol judges panel next season with Randy Jackson.
“We do in fact have one judge whose deal closed very recently,” said Reilly. “It’s an artist that many contestants have tried to emulate. Because it really was concluded only hours ago our new judge couldn’t be with us.”
Reilly called Carey from the stage at the Beverly Hilton.
“I am so excited to be joining Idol,” she said. “I can’t wait too get started.”
Reilly also confirmed Jennifer Lopez is exiting—as well as Steven Tyler.
