By Yvonne Villarreal
Los Angeles Times
(MCT)
LOS ANGELES _ Hey, in case it wasn’t yet clear: “American Idol” is undergoing a major overhaul.
Reports have long been swirling that the judges’ panel would be getting wiped out after another season of dipping ratings and to save costs amid ballooning salaries for top-tier judges.
Now everything seems to be coming to fruition. First, veteran judge Randy Jackson announced his departure from the long-running reality series. Then came official confirmation Thursday that Mariah Carey would be leaving. Shortly thereafter, Nicki Minaj took to Twitter, hinting of her own departure.
“Thank you American Idol for a life changing experience!” she wrote. “Wouldn’t trade it for the world! Time to focus on the Music!!! Mmmuuuaahhh!!!
Fox offered this statement:
“Nicki Minaj is a superstar who brought a level of honesty and passion to AMERICAN IDOL and who had a tremendous positive impact on so many contestants this season. Given her extremely busy career, we understand and respect her decision and wish her the best.”
No word yet on the fate of country star Keith Urban, though the writing is clearly on the wall.
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