Jennifer Lopez + Harry Connick Jr. Confirmed as ‘American Idol’ Judges
The rumor mill can finally stop churning: The 'American Idol' judging panel is officially complete! FOX officials confirmed today (Sept. 3) that Jennifer Lopez and Harry Connick Jr. will indeed be joining the show for its 13th season.
They join country music star Keith Urban, back for his second stint as a judge, and former judge Randy Jackson, who will now be an in-house mentor. Host Ryan Seacrest will also once again return for the latest installment of the reality contest, which begins airing in January.
News leaked weeks ago that J. Lo would be returning to 'Idol' after a season off. Rumors about singer-actor Connick, a frequent mentor on the show, started shortly after Dr. Luke unexpectedly withdrew his bid for the third judge's spot.
"'American Idol' has always been about discovering the next singing superstar, and next season our judging panel will deliver a most impressive combination of talent, wisdom, and personality to do just that," FOX Entertainment chairman Kevin Reilly said in a statement.
The news was also celebrated on Twitter by Ryan, Jennifer and Harry:
BTW, the confirmation came just in time: The judges start work today in Boston!