JLo close to deal for `American Idol`

Jennifer Lopez is poised to step in as a judge to 'Idol'.

New York: Ellen DeGeneres is dancing off "American Idol" after one season and Jennifer Lopez is poised to step in.

A person familiar with negotiations for Lopez said she`s close to signing a deal to join Fox TV`s hit singing contest as a judge. The person, who was not authorized to comment publicly, spoke Thursday night on condition of anonymity. DeGeneres announced earlier Thursday she is leaving the show after one season, following fellow judge Simon Cowell out the door. Fox has yet to announce a replacement for Cowell. Actor-singer-dancer Lopez, whose films include "Selena" and "The Back-Up Plan," has appeared as a mentor on "American Idol." Fox declined comment. Phone and e-mail messages for Lopez`s representatives were not immediately returned. Bureau Report