Mariah Carey Officially Hired As Next Season’s ‘American Idol’ Judge

The people behind American Idol promised they would be making some serious changes in regards to the show, and they’re starting with a judge panel revamp!

It has been announced that diva extraordinaire, Mariah Carey, has taken a role as a judge on the show next season. She will work alongside longtime judge Randy Jackson. With Steven Tyler and Jennifer Lopez making their exit, that still leaves an empty slot. Who will it be?

Carey made a statement Monday expressing her excitement for the upcoming role saying, “As a singer, songwriter and producer, it’s going to be fun and rewarding to help find new talent and give back with American Idol. I can’t wait to channel my creative energy as a part of this show which is a massive global phenomenon.”

The 42-year-old singer has another reason to be giddy about the gig. According to TMZ, she’ll be getting an $18 million dollar paycheck for it! Not too shabby for a season’s worth of work.