Rapper/singer Nicki Minaj arrives at the 2012 MTV Video Music Awards at Staples Center on September 6, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Christopher Polk/Getty Images)
NEW YORK (AP) — The “American Idol” judges’ panel is now complete with the naming of singer-rapper Nicki Minaj and country crooner Keith Urban.
The Fox network officially tapped the pair with an announcement Sunday, just hours before the first round of judging for next season was due to begin in New York.
The announcement also settles the status of Randy Jackson. He will stay put as the sole remaining original “Idol” judge, scotching rumors of a different role for him on the popular talent competition.
This trio joins newcomer Mariah Carey on a judges panel now expanded to four members from its previous three.
They fill vacancies left by Steven Tyler and Jennifer Lopez, who announced their exits in July.
“American Idol” returns for its 12th season in January.
Copyright 2012 The Associated Press.
