'American Idol' Judges Announced: Jennifer Lopez, Steven Tyler and Randy Jackson
These are your 'American Idol' judges: Randy Jackson, Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler. Host Ryan Seacrest announced the news in a press conference that streamed live at americanidol.com.
The official confirmation ends weeks of speculation about the judges' line-up. Recent rumors surfaced that Lopez had signed a deal, while Tyler's participation was reported by friends and bandmates of the Aerosmith singer.
"I call 'Idol' season 10 'The Remix,' baby!" said Jackson, the only remaining original judge.
During the press conference, Tyler entered the stage first and called 'Idol' the "perfect feathered nest." "It's being part of smething much bigger than yourself," he told Seacrest when asked why he decided to come on board. "I want to bring some rock to this rollercoaster."
Lopez, glad in a sparkling jumpsuit, came out next from underneath the stage in a cloud of swirling dry ice. The "total package, the triple threat," as Seacrest called her, said she was excited to be there. "You have to just concentrate on the moment as best you can. Just live. It's your moment."
She added that she's "looking for the next Michael Jackson."
The new line-up brings big changes to 'American Idol.' Gone are original judges Simon Cowell and Paula Abdul. Gone are more recent additions, Ellen DeGeneres and Kara DioGuardi.
In their place are two music superstars. "Every kid is trying to be them," Jackson said.
Backstage, Lopez told TMZ, "What we will bring is the experience of trying to make it in this business, and achieving a level of success. "
But whether the addition of Lopez and Tyler can rejuvenate the reality series remains to be seen. While 'American Idol' remains TV's biggest show, last season lost 9 percent of viewers, and industry experts aren't sure the show can survive without the acerbic, but popular Cowell. "It's going to be very difficult to replace him and expect the same ratings as last year," Horizon Media's Brad Adgate told USA Today.
What do you think of J. Lo and Steven Tyler as the new 'American Idol' judges? Sound off in the comments!

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