Adam Lambert to Be Next AMERICAN IDOL Judge?

As first reported on E! News, the FOX network is currently considering rocker Adam Lambert for a spot at the judge's table on the upcoming season of AMERICAN IDOL. A source tells E!, "They have been talking about Adam for over a month. He personifies the show, and will be a popular choice right from the start. He knows what it's like to be on the receiving end of the judges' comments, he has a human touch, and they know they can't go wrong if they bring him on. He would be able to bring a unique perspective to the show. People love him."

E! recently reported that Jennifer Lopez has not yet signed on to return as a judge for next season and fellow judges Randy Jackson and Steven Tyler are questionable as well. "Randy is great, but he's part of the old Idol," said the source. "They want to keep the soul of the show but have a new look, and for that reason he may well not be part of the new line up."

A source close to Tyler confirmed that his future with the show is in question. "All up in the air," the source said. "We shall see."

Lopez has stated in recent interviews that she may abandon her post on Idol in order to spend more time with her twins, now 4 years old. However, multiple sources have confirmed that FOX has left the door open for her return. "I don't know if they can afford Jennifer, but they have let it be known that she has a guaranteed spot if she wants it," one of the sources said. "She appeals to everyone so the big bosses are in favor of keeping her on."

According to the show's producer, Nigel Lythgoe, it is unclear who will be part of the judge's panel of the upcoming 12th season. "...as of this moment in time, we are still in negotiations as we are with everybody. Everything is up in the air," he commented. "There will be changes for sure, but nothing that stops it from what it is, which is an out and out talent show."

A representative for Fox has declined to comment on the report.

Photo credit: Walter McBride