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Report: ‘American Idol’ Taking Nuclear Option and Getting Rid of All Four Judges, Along With Longtime Producer

May 9, 2013  •  Post A Comment

"American Idol" isn’t asking any of its four current judges to return next season, and on top of that, longtime producer Nigel Lythgoe also will be leaving the show, reports TheWrap.

While reports have surfaced about former judge Jennifer Lopez coming back to the program, that’s not in the cards, according to the report.

Because of slumping ratings, Fox will make major changes to the show, including shedding all four judges, even original judge Randy Jackson, the story reports. A Fox representative declined to comment.

While the four judges have options to return next season, Fox won’t pick them up. The show, which paid a reported $18 million to Mariah Carey and $12 million to Nicki Minaj, has vowed to stop paying huge salaries.

The show’s format will change, with a redesigned look and an end to the tribute nights.

Ratings are down 22% this season, dipping to a series low last Thursday, when “Idol” drew 11 million viewers and only a 2.4 rating in the key 18-49 demographic, the piece points out. At its peak, the show was drawing about 30 million viewers.

 

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