Talk about an upgrade!

After constant speculation on which big-time celeb American Idolwould snatch up for the upcoming season, they finally found atleast one – Mariah Carey! Fox confirmed the news and her salary could bebetween $12 million and $17 million. Looks like they could afford her! Britney Spears still takes the cake withher $20 million X Factor paycheck.

“It’s the biggest recording artist than any of these showshave ever had,” Fox entertainment president Kevin Reilly said. “It’s an artistmany of these contestants have tried to emulate. [The deal] only concluded onlyhours ago. Not being the only game in town we need to keep things fresh.”

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After the news broke that not only Steven Tyler was leavingbut also Jennifer Lopez, Mariah has been at the top of the list of possiblecandidates for the upcoming season. No word yet on whether the ultimate Idoljudge Randy Jackson is still staying, but it’s definitely looking goodconsidering he’s Mariah’s manager!

While Idol may have landed the biggest star in the musicindustry, like ever, the search continues for yet another judge, preferably amale. Former contestant Adam Lambert is looking pretty good right about now!

What do you think about Mariah as the new judge? Is she agood pick?

Photos Courtesy of Fame FlyNet