Keith Urban Officially Confirmed as Next ‘American Idol’ Judge
Country's own superstar Keith Urban has been officially confirmed as one of the judges for the upcoming 12th season of the hit Fox reality singing competition 'American Idol.'
The Australian-born star has been rumored to be in talks with the show for weeks, and recently raised speculation to a fever pitch when he quit his previous gig as a coach on the Australian version of 'The Voice.' Entertainment Weekly confirmed the rumors today (Sept. 16), announcing that Urban and rap star Nicki Minaj will join pop diva Mariah Carey and returning alumnus Randy Jackson at the judge's table this year.
"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," Mike Darnell of Fox told Entertainment Weekly in a statement.
The 'For You' hitmaker will be a necessary addition to the show, which has churned out major country superstars like Carrie Underwood, Kellie Pickler and Scotty McCreery in past seasons.
Urban will earn a reported $4 million for his new gig.