Mariah Carey and Nicki Minaj will sort out feud, says Barack Obama

US President Barack Obama has commented on the feud between American Idol judges Nicki Minaj and Mariah Carey.

Video footage of Minaj screaming at Carey at the American Idol judging table leaked earlier this month.

PA Images / Pablo Martinez Monsivais/AP

Minaj has since strenuously denied that she threatened to "shoot" Carey, while American Idol producers have played down the rivalry.

President Obama was asked about the controversy during an interview with Miami radio host Michael Yo on Monday (October 15).

"I think they are going to be! able to sort it out. I am confident," Obama said of Carey and Minaj.

He further explained: "I am all about bringing people together, working for the same cause. I think both outstanding artists are going to be able to make sure that they're moving forward and not going backwards."

Obama went on to describe Carey as a "wonderful lady" who he knows quite well.

Oscar winner and former American Idol contestant Jennifer Hudson offered a different view of the feud this week, suggesting that the altercation might have been staged.

"I think it's just for ratings for the show," Hudson commented.

American Idol returns to Fox in January 2013.

Watch the American Idol argument below:

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