Jennifer Lopez to return as judge on ‘American Idol’

Los Angeles: Actress and singer Jennifer Lopez will be back as a judge when ‘American Idol’ begins its 11th season on FOX Television, one of the show`s producers said Wednesday. "I believe we`re still waiting for the official announcements, but I am delighted to say that all three judges, along with the brilliant host of American Idol, is back for the next season," executive producer Nigel Lythgoe said. He spoke on ‘Idol’ host Ryan Seacrest`s radio programme. Last season`s other two judges, Randy Jackson and Steven Tyler, had already signed deals with FOX to return. Season 11 of the reality competition series will hit the airwaves in January. Auditions for the next season of ‘American Idol’ will get under way in a few weeks in cities including Denver, Houston, St. Louis, Portland, San Diego and Pittsburgh, Seacrest said on Twitter. A report last week on The Wrap.com said Lopez agreed to return to "Idol" for $20 million, up from the USD 12 million she reportedly made last season. Lopez is currently shooting two films and working with soon-to-be-ex-husband Marc Anthony on ‘¡Q`Viva! The Chosen,’ a Latin America-wide talent search show from the same company that produces ‘American Idol.’ IANS