‘American Idol’ season 12: Nicki Minaj, Keith Urban close to deal

It’s been a long time coming, but it looks as though the wait is finally over when it comes to figuring out some new additions to the “American Idol” — at least pending a last-minute shakeup that keeps the deals from happening.

According to The Hollywood Reporter, Nicki Minaj and Keith Urban are close to being a done deal to join Mariah Carey on the show next year, and will each be given decent salaries — though not at the same level as the pop megastar. Minaj will reportedly receive a paycheck of $8 million plus an allowance for some of her diverse wardrobe, hair, and makeup choices. Meanwhile, Urban will be getting a smaller salary of $4 million — a move brought on slightly by his vocal issues limiting his time in the spotlight as of late.

With this news in min, you can officially cross Brad Paisley off the list — as the show only wants one country performer, and he was reportedly asking for the same sort of salary as Minaj. Meanwhile, Nicki’s deal likely minimizes the possibility that Kanye West will be making an appearance of his own on the panel, mostly since it would seem strange to have two hip-hop superstars on a show that does not really promote that genre of music in the slightest.

So if these deals pan out, where does the show go from here? The most likely final candidate if there is a fourth judge is Latin superstar Enrique Iglesias, but such past contenders as Adam Lambert or Nick Jonas could also be looked at. It’s almost a sure thing that if the show goes back to a four-judge format, it will be two men and two women — and you also can’t rule out Randy Jackson opting to stay on board.

Do you think Keith and Nicki are great choices? If you want to check out some more news pertaining to the “American Idol” judging rumors, be sure and hit up the link here.

Photo: Fox