Nicki Minaj And Keith Urban Join 'American Idol'

All Four Idol Judges

When "American Idol's" 12th season debuts in JANUARY 2013, MARIAH CAREY and RANDY JACKSON will be joined by two new judges: NICKI MINAJ and KEITH URBAN. 

Said URBAN, "It's really an honor to have been invited to be a part of the 'American Idol' family. I'm looking forward to working with everyone and to seeing the same passion that I have for music in all of the participants."

"I am thrilled about this year's judges' panel! We've got global icon MARIAH CAREY and 'Idol's' heart and soul RANDY JACKSON, who will be joined by NICKI MINAJ and KEITH URBAN," said FOX BROADCASTING Pres./Alternative Entertainment MIKE DARNELL. "NICKI's an unbelievably captivating international phenomenon who has made an indelible mark on rap and pop. And KEITH is another great addition to IDOL -– he's one of the biggest stars in Country music and I know that our fans and contestants will fall in love with him. With an unparalleled star like MARIAH, fan-favorite RANDY, chart-toppers like NICKI and KEITH and our incomparable host RYAN, we've put together one of the most exciting judging panels around."

"We're ecstatic to welcome NICKI MINAJ and KEITH URBAN to the 'American Idol' family, joining MARIAH and RANDY at the judges' table," said FREMANTLEMEDIA CEO CECILE FROT-COUTAZ. "NICKI is someone who represents a different side of the music industry, who has now crossed into mainstream culture with her unique artistry, style and flair. KEITH is one of country music's true stars who brings with him charm, wit and knowledge about the industry."

Exec. Producer SIMON FULLER noted, "With the exciting addition of MARIAH CAREY, KEITH URBAN and NICKI MINAJ, alongside RANDY JACKSON, 'American Idol's' star power has never been so great. For this we have to thank the ongoing commitment and belief of FOX and the dedication and focus of the 'Idol' production team. We have all been together since the very beginning and we are focused on making 'Idol' Season 12 the best ever."

"'Idol' has truly never looked better," said CORE MEDIA GROUP Pres. MARC GRABOFF. "We couldn't be more pleased about this new team of judges, and, along with our partners at FOX and FREMANTLE, look forward to a terrific Season 12."

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