Mariah Carey reportedly in talks to join 'American Idol,' Randy Jackson may become mentor

By Elizabeth Kwiatkowski, 07/13/2012

Mariah Carey reportedly turned down The X Factor but has turned towards American Idol instead.ADVERTISEMENT

Carey may be joining American Idol's revamped judging panel for its upcoming twelfth edition after previously declining an offer to serve as a judge on The X Factor's second season, Us Weekly reported Thursday, citing an unidentified source.

"They are in serious talks with Mariah and it's very close to being a done deal," the source said.

Carey's addition to American Idol would reportedly be part of a complete judging-panel facelift in which judge Randy Jackson may remain on the show but take on a whole new position.

"They will move Randy into a more mentoring role," the source added.

Reports Idol is considering changing its entire judging panel have swirled for weeks.

While she has yet to formally confirm her status, judge Jennifer Lopez has openly ta! lked abo ut leaving the show, and Steven Tyler formally announced his Idol departureyesterday.

Both Lopez and Tyler have served on American Idol's judging panel for the last two seasons.

(Photo credit Fox)

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