The next ‘American Idol’ judge

Jennifer Lopez is reportedly in the final stages of negotiations with “American Idol” and “it’s all but a done deal and Jennifer will be the last critical link in the chain,” reported celebrity news website Thirty Mile Zone (TMZ.com).

According to news reports, Lopez was being considered as an “Idol” judge but had been dropped because her list of demands was too high. However, TMZ has now said that this was false information and “there has been no drama and no diva demands” and “it’s been typical negotiating”. The deal could be finalised as early as next week and rumour has it that “Idol” producers believe that Lopez is the key to re-energising the show.

Another spot on the panel has been filled by Aerosmith singer Steven Tyler who E! Online has reported to have signed and sealed his deal as a judge for the tenth season of the television programme.

The show’s producer Nigel Lythgoe has said that original judge Randy Jackson will be there but it is not yet known if Kara DioGuardi will return. DioGuardi told Fox two months ago that she wanted to leave the show, despite her contractual agreement, but her status has not yet been confirmed.

Published in The Express Tribune, September 4^th, 2010.