Source: Mariah Carey in the mix for 'Idol'

NEW YORK American Idol may be getting a worldwide idol as a judge Mariah Carey.

A person familiar with the shows negotiations say Carey is being pursued to join the judging panel of the Fox talent competition. The source requested anonymity because of the private nature of negotiations, which were termed as serious. Carey has also been courted by other talent competitions, and her name has been thrown out in the past for Idol and other shows.

Randy Jackson, who is a manager, producer and friend of Careys, is the only judge left. There are reports that Jacksons role may shift as well.

Aretha Franklin and former Idol contestant Adam Lambert have been rumored as potential judges as well.

If Carey were to join, shed bring considerable expertise on hitmaking: The Grammy-winner is one of the best-selling artists of all time, with numerous No. 1 hits. Shes working on a new album, her first since her twins were born last year.

It would also give the show a dose of super- stardom, which is key considering the star power on shows like X Factor, which added Britney Spears and Demi Lovato and will begin its second season in the fall.

American Idol has been TVs most popular program for nearly a decade but has had a marked downturn in its audience.