Nicki Minaj, Keith Urban Close To ‘American Idol’ Judging Deals

cstutz | August 24, 2012 3:00 pm

The DayGlo rap queen Nicki Minaj is close to finalizing her deal to join American Idol‘s cast of judges, reports The Hollywood Reporter. Meanwhile, country star Keith Urban is said to also be wrapping a deal of his own with the FOX singing competition.

According to a source close to THR, the conflict surrounding Minaj’s Pepsi sponsorship and Idol‘s partner Coca-Cola has been worked out, and the rapper will receive $8 million to join the show, with some extra money for wardrobe, hair and makeup. She’s expected to sign as soon as today or early next week. (Hopefully, Mariah Carey won’t throw a conniption fit. She is, after all, still the top-earning reality-TV judge.)

Urban has reportedly signed on for $3 to $4 million, undercutting the show’s other country contender, Brad Paisley, who had apparently wanted a salary matching Minaj’s. Though Urban is one of the biggest country artists in America — and the world — throat problems have sidelined touring for the Aussie singer. As husband to Nicole Kidman, his star power rivals The Voice‘s Blake Shelton.

So who will fill that fourth judge’s seat? While Idol mainstay and Carey’s co-manager, Randy Jackson, has said he would stay on the show, Idol producers are reportedly still talking with other candidates — which may include  Kanye West, Nick Jonas and Pharrell.

Who do you want to see join the judges’ dais? Tell us in the comments below, or on Facebook and Twitter.