Keith Urban: Latest to Join American Idol?

Reports are surfacing the internet confirming that country superstar Keith Urban has accepted an offer from American Idol to sign on as a judge for the show’s upcoming season. According to country music website, The Country Vibe, Keith Urban has been confirmed as the next personality to join Mariah Carey on the panel. We previously reported that Nicki Minaj is in heavy talks to join the panel as well, with reports claiming that she is close to receiving $8 Million for her deal. Urban, on the other hand, should expect between $3 and $4 Million. Both of these are far off from the $18 Million Carey has reportedly secured for her role.

It was no secret this summer that Idol executives wanted a country superstar on the panel, especially with the show’s recent successes in the country music industry. Between Carrie Underwood, Kellie Pickler, Scotty McCreery, Lauren Alaina and Kelly Clarkson’s recent venture into country music, American Idol boasts quite a few stars in the genre. It came down to Brad Paisley or Keith Urban and it seems the Australian hunk has edged Paisley for the job. Paisley reportedly wanted a deal in the ballpark with Minaj, but the show claims to have been wanting to cut down costs for the upcoming season.

Minaj has not reportedly accepted an offer, but we know that her deal with Pepsi might be causing negotiations to progress more slowly. As all are aware, Idol is sponsored by Coca Cola. Once those issues are worked out, Minaj will receive her payment and any additional allowances for wardrobe, hair and makeup.

Keith Urban is no stranger to talent competitions, as he sat in the spinning red chair for Austalia’s version of The Voice last year. While there is no clear confirmation that Randy Jackson has stepped down from judge to mentor position, this seems to be the consensus. That said, who will fill his seat at the table, as Idol returns to a four judge format? Enrique Iglesias, Joe Jonas and Pharrell Williams seem to be the front runners at this point. Although, Kanye West’s name has raised a few eyebrows recently. Only time will tell.