Is Jennifer Lopez the best hope for American Idol, season 13, ratings? According to several reports, Fox is looking to re-tap the pop artist in an effort save the show from slipping off the ratings map. Lopez is reportedly close to inking a deal to return to the reality singing competition.
Last season’s viewership suffered a major downturn and the star power of Nicki Minaj and Mariah Carey was not enough to stop the bleeding, especially because their beef did not sit well with fans.
On the other hand, Keith Urban was confirmed to return last week according to what Kevin Reilly, Fox entertainment chief, said last Thursday at the Television Critics Association press tour in Los Angeles, reports the Guardian.
Reilly also hinted about Jennifer’s return, saying, “There have been discussions, but there is no deal.”
The race is on as reportedly the executives are doing away with the 4-judge panel and opting for only three, the original formula.
While Lopez may be coming back to judge the reality show, there is a lot of excitement over rumors that singers Jennifer Hudson and Carrie Underwood may still be in the running for the third judge’s chair.
However EW.com suggests the former Idol contestants are out and Black Eyed Peas singer Will.i.am is still in talks with Idol producers, though it’s unclear if he’s actively in negotiating a deal.
American Idol, season 13 premieres on the Fox television network on Jan. 15, 2014.
