Nicki Minaj, Keith Urban to Judge 'American Idol,' Says Katie Couric

Sheila Marikar

Nicki Minaj and Keith Urban been added to the "American Idol" judging panel, according to Katie Couric.

In an interview with former "Idol" judge Jennifer Lopez scheduled to air on "Katie" today, the daytime talk show newcomer confirms that the hip-hop star and country crooner are joining Fox's reality singing competition show. She also reveals that original judge Randy Jackson is staying. An excerpt of Couric's conversation with Lopez was sent to reporters earlier today:

KC: What do you think about the new group of judges?

JL: Did they announce?

KC: Yeah.

JL: Who is it?

KC: Mariah Carey, Nicki Minaj, Keith Urban and Randy [Jackson]. Randy's back.

JL: Randy is! Oh thank god. I love Randy. I'm glad he's doing it.

KC: What do you think of that group? That's sort of interesting, don't you think?

JL: That's an eclectic group.

KC: Yeah!

JL: Yeah it is.

KC: I'm glad. I think it will be fun to have Keith Urban there.

JL: I think they all have something really different to offer so it should be interesting.

Representatives for Fox did not respond to requests for comment, but other sites have reported that the network was planning on officially announcing the new "Idol" panel by the end of the week.