Speculation that Mariah Carey will become an Idol judge

AP photo

CNN - With at least two seats open at the American Idol judges' table, there's growing speculation that Mariah Carey may be offered a chair.

But her husband Nick Cannon says the show likely can't afford her.

In an interview with TMZ, Cannon said Idol might have to double outgoing judge Jennifer Lopez's rumored $20 millionsalary to sign his wife.

Lopez and Steven Tyler announced they are not returning next season

The show will not comment on whether Carey is in the running as a replacement.