Latest on Idols & Judges

After American Idol judges Steven Tyler and Jennifer Lopez announced they would not return next season, rumors swirled about who would replace them and whether remaining judge Randy Jackson's role would change.

Now The Hollywood Reporter reports that producers are putting together a four-person judging panel--that doesn't include Jackson.

According to an insider, Idol producers have settled on pop star Mariah Carey, rapper Nicki Minaj (who recently canceled her tour due to vocal chord injury), country music star Keith Urban and Latin heartthrob Enrique Iglesias. Meanwhile, Jackson's role has reportedly shifted to mentor--possibly replacing current mentor Jimmy Iovine.

But Minaj's potential involvement with Idol allegedly isn't sitting well with one of the show's sponsors--Coca Cola. After all, Minaj is the new face of Coke's rival Pepsi, and that may seem like a slap in the face after Coke has reportedly shelled out $26 million/year to sponsor the Fox singing competition.

In the end, Minaj may or may not end up being one of the new Idol judges.

Meanwhile this season's winner Phillip Phillips recently got some added publicity during the Olympics and Jordin Sparks is currently starring in the film Sparkle--which led me to wonder where the other American Idols are now, and what they've been up to since winning their respective seasons.

If you share my curiosity, you'll want to check out my American Idols, Where Are They Now piece and find out what your favorite Idols have been up to. For example, Taylor Hicks has opened a restaurant in Birmingham, Alabama.

Photo © Fox.