Mariah Carey confirmed as new American Idol judge

Singer Mariah Carey has officially signed on as an American Idol judge.

Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler quit the panel earlier this month (Jul12), sending TV show bosses scrambling to fill their vacant spots.

The Hero hitmaker's name was tossed into the ring as a potential replacement and now the 42 year old has been confirmed as longtime pal and consultant Randy Jackson's sidekick for the upcoming 12th season of Idol.

A statement from Carey reads: "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."

According to GossipCop.com, the icon's new deal is said to be worth $17 million (GBP11 million).

Last week (ends20Jul12), the superstar's husband Nick Cannon joked he wouldn't let his wife leave the house for less than $100 million (GBP62.5 million).

It isn't known who will be joining Jackson and Carey on the show but names in the mix include Black Eyed Peas stars will.i.am and Fergie and former Idol stars Carrie Underwood and Adam Lambert.