‘American Idol’ season 12: Fox boss says Nicki Minaj will surprise

Are you excited about what is coming up on “American Idol” season 12? We have already heard plenty about the chaotic dynamic that reportedly exists on the judging panel this year, though in spite of all the talk of feuding and behind-the-scenes smack talk, at least one of the people responsible for helping to run the show is doing just about everything in his power to ensure that people now that these people can actually judge.

Speaking in a new interview with The Hollywood Reporter, executive producer Ken Warwick singles out Nicki Minaj when it comes to what the public perception of her may be, and what she actually comes across like both on the show behind the scenes and with some of the contestants:

“The perception of Nicki is unfair, really. Everyone thought she was just a daft, half-educated rapper. But she has got a heart, and it’s starting to show, along with her intelligence, which threw some of us as well. And her eloquence and her grasp of what’s going on. I think she’ll surprise a lot of people.”

Nicki seems to be almost settling into a role as one of the more honest judges, while Mariah Carey looks to be one of the nurturers responsible for encouraging artists rather than delivering to many harsh truths. We already know what Randy Jackson is going to be like, and based on what we know about Keith Urban, it’s going to be hard for him to sound mean regardless of what he says.

What do you want to see the most on “American Idol” this season: better judges, or just a good contestant pool? If you want to check out some more news pertaining to reigning “American Idol” champ Phillip Phillips, be sure to head on over to the link here.

Photo: Fox