Musical Chairs

Report: Jennifer Lopez Close to Idol Deal

Newest judge could be announced by next week.

Is Jennifer Lopez one step closer to becoming the new judge on the block? While it’s been rumored for weeks that she’s been in talks to sign on for American Idol’s tenth season, sources tell TMZ that a deal is now imminent. And contrary to earlier reports, negotiations between the pop star and Idol producers have been drama-free, according to the site. Unless a last-minute issue arises, Lopez will be sizing up contestants with Randy Jackson—the only remaining judge from the original panel—in a matter of weeks. Since Paula Abdul and Simon Cowell left the reality-television juggernaut, it’s struggled to find replacements with good chemistry. Sources tell TMZ that producers see Lopez as the "key to re-energizing the show."