Mariah Carey To Join American Idol Judging Panel

Mariah Carey has accepted a gig as a new judge on Fox’s American Idol.  Entertainment chief Kevin Reilly called Carey onstage during a press tour and made the announcement.

“I am so excited to be on Idol … I can’t wait to get started in a couple of months.” said Carey, who just monts ago had been rumored to be joining The X Factor’s judging panel. Ultimately, the new additions on “Factor” were Britney Spears and Demi Lovato.

Reilly would not confirm any additional judges or changes to the format of the show, or even whether Randy Jackson will return. After Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler are out (They say they quit, reports speculate they were fired) it seems anything can happen.  “The ratings are down, but not being the only game in town, we need to keep things fresh,” said Reilly.

Ratings for Idol had seen a 23% ratings decline. “We both decided it’s time for a change,” Reilly said.