According to some media sources, Nicki Minaj might have been tapped for Season 12's "American Idol" judges panel -- but is it a good move?
Nicki Minaj is the latest celebrity pop star to rise to the top of the "American Idol" potential judges pool. The R&B/rap artist who sometimes seems possessed by the spirit of Lady Gaga has been flagged by Us Weekly as close to a deal with the producers of the hit Fox Television show. But is she really?
Generally speaking, when someone signs onto the show, Fox Television will make it official with an announcement of the signing, just like they do when someone leaves the show (note: Fox Television didn't waste time after Steven Tyler and Jennifer went public with their decisions just a few hours apart, so...). Since Fox Television hasn't jumped to make any headline-stealing announcements of Minaj becoming a member of the Fox family, it could simply be another rumor. Of course, she also might be on the verge of sealing the deal.
"I'm not sure the deal is completely done yet, but yes, she is definitely doing it," an insider supposedly revealed to Us Weekly. "A few more slight things to sign off on but it is happening."
The magazine also reported that they had another source that said Minaj was "100 percent confirmed."
But if that were so, where's the Fox Television people and a press release?
Nicki Minaj, 29, was first mentioned by The Hollywood Reporter as a potential judge earlier this year when the speculation first started running wild. The Reporter was also first to note that Minaj might join the "American Idol" panel but could face some kind of contractual conflicts due to her endorsing role with Pepsi ("American Idol" is sponsored by Coke).
Minaj, not for her over-the-top and colorful style of dress, has a flair for the dramatic and has been the center of a few controversies, the last being her Grammy performance where her odd stage show included a reenactment of an exorcism. This got her much criticism from detractors and the Catholic Church itself.
But Minaj has had considerable chart success in the past three years, including the massive hit, "Super Bass," which has been certified quadruple platinum, and "Starships," her highest charting single to date (No. 2 on Billboard's Hot 100). Her first album, 2010's Pink Friday, has sold over 1.7 million copies. Discovered by rapper Lil Wayne, Minaj was featured on fourteen charting singles in 2010 on songs performed by Big Sean, Trey Songz, and Ludacris.
But TMZ reported the day after the news broke that the Minaj signing was far from being a done deal. In fact, sources were told Mariah Carey, who signed on with "American Idol" in July, hung up the phone in a fury when told of Minaj's joining. Apparently, according to sources, she had been told she would be the only female on the panel.
Still, Fox Television and Minaj's reps are staying silent on the matter, so nothing seems conclusive as yet.
But would Nicki Minaj be a good fit for "Idol" and its fans? Or is she too over-the-top? Could her addition to the show's line-up be more trouble than it's worth?
"American Idol" will return to Fox Television for Season 12 in January.
(photo credit: Jen, Creative Commons)
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