Plans to completely overhaul the “American Idol” judging panel–and perhaps turn to an all-alumni group next year–are as well-documented as news of the show’s ratings downfall.
Yet season 12 judges Nicki Minaj and Mariah Carey still opted to confirm their departures Thursday.
Since the FOX reality series was not expected to bring Minaj and Carey back next season, the notion that they are “exiting” seems disingenuous. The more realistic assertion would seemingly be that Minaj and Carey are withdrawing from consideration for next season.
FOX, however, showed no interest in quibbling over semantics, noting Carey “will remain an inspiration to ‘Idol’ hopefuls for many seasons to come” and that when it comes to Minaj, “we understand and respect her decision and wish her the best.”
Randy Jackson confirmed his departure earlier this month, which means Keith Urban is the only season twelve panelist still in the running for a return next season.
