Nicki Minaj, Keith Urban confirmed for ‘American Idol’

Nicki Minaj and Keith Urban have officially been confirmed as judges on the upcoming series of American Idol. Over the last couple of months, it has been heavily rumoured that the pair would be joining the panel for the 12th season of the show, replacing Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler.

The pair will join the only original judge left on the panel, Randy Jackson along with new arrival Mariah Carey.

Mike Darnell, president of alternative entertainment, Fox Broadcasting company said today: “We’ve got global icon Mariah Carey and Idol’s heart and soul Randy Jackson, who will be joined by Nicki Minaj and Keith Urban.

“Nicki’s an unbelievably captivating international phenomenon who has made an indelible mark on rap and pop. And Keith is another great addition to Idol, he’s one of the biggest stars in country music and I know that our fans and contestants will fall in love with him.

“With an unparalleled star like Mariah, fan-favourite Randy, chart-toppers like Nicki and Keith and our incomparable host Ryan, we’ve put together one of the most exciting judging panels around.”

American Idol’s executive producer, Simon Fuller added: “With the exciting addition of Mariah Carey, Keith Urban and Nicki Minaj, alongside Randy Jackson, American Idol’s star power has never been so great. For this we have to thank the ongoing commitment and belief of Fox and the dedication and focus of the Idol production team.

“We have all been together since the very beginning and we are focused on making Idol Season 12 the best ever.”

Host, Ryan Seacrest later tweeted a picture of the cast with the caption: “It’s official, your new #IdolJudges are @MariahCarey, @NickiMinaj, @KeithUrban & @Yo_RandyJackson!”

Urban recently quit The Voice Australia to make way for his appearance on American Idol.

Auditions for the 12th season of American Idol kicked off 16 September, 2012 in New York City.