Mariah Carey Missed Pivotal ‘X Factor’ Shoot Thanks to Hurricane Irene

The mystery surrounding Mariah Carey's apparent role on the upcoming season of 'X Factor' just grew even more mysterious. Reports are surfacing that Carey was unable to tape a "very important" segment for the show due to Hurricane Irene.

TMZ says that Carey was in New York and was supposed to meet Simon Cowell to tape a segment, but was unable to travel due to the hurricane. The site reports that sources claim the missed shoot has thrown the show into "utter chaos."

Producers are evidently trying to figure out how to find a new way to get their desired footage. Earlier this month, Cowell said, "You can’t say no to Mariah. We have to find a role for her. I’m a huge fan of hers -- not just as an artist, but as a person, and I love her to death."

Carey was reportedly planning to tape a segment at the homes of the judges, who include Cowell, Paula Abdul, L.A. Reid and Nicole Scherzinger. Mariah now has twin babies to care for, so it's likely her role would not be a full-time endeavor.

'X Factor' debuts next month on FOX. The winner(s) of the competition will earn a $5 million record deal and star in a Pepsi commercial after the Super Bowl.