NEW JUDGES NOT YET SIGNED FOR IDOL

Fox had reportedly hoped to announce the names of its new American Idol judges at its turn at bat at the Television Critics Association “tour” in Beverly Hills today (Monday). But published reports indicated that contract negotiations have not yet been completed with actress Jennifer Lopez and Aerosmith frontman Steve Tyler, the two most likely to replace Simon Cowell and Ellen DeGeneres. TheDailyBeast.com reported that Lopez was offered $10 million to come aboard, or about four times what Paula Abdul was said to have been earning when she quit the show. Meanwhile, Tyler said, in a quickee interview, said that he will “probably” be a judge on Idol come fall — but a contract reportedly has not yet been signed. Harry Connick Jr. is widely reported to be the network’s second choice if a deal with Tyler can’t be completed.

UPDATE:
Fox Entertainment Chairman Peter Rice confirmed today (Monday) that no deals had been signed with anyone “behind or in front of the camera” for next season’s American Idol. This would appear to include Nigel Lythgoe, who reportedly is about the return as the show’s producer as well as Jennifer Lopez and Steve Tyler, who are reportedly negotiating deals to sign on as judges. Rice also declined comment on reports that Kara DioGuardi will be leaving the talent show.