2nd Update: Randy Jackson is said to be “fed up and torn” over Idol shakeup, but is the type of person who “goes with the flow”. He’s still under contract. Read it at People.
Update: EW is reporting that FOX talked to Nigel Lythgoe about joining the judges panel. Read more about it HERE. So bummed we’ve got possibly another month of rumor mongering from pubs looking for hits. Ugh.
Yesterday’s FOX executive session at the TCA Press hour yielded no news. So you know what that means kids….the Idol rumor mill is once again open for business!
First up today, Rob Shuter from AOL says Jennifer Lopez was not the Idol producer’s first choice to be judge. She was not even 2nd or third.
Idol brass really wanted Elton John or Barry Manilow, but both passed–neither wanting to step into Simon Cowell’s very large shoes. Plus, both still manage very busy careers.
- Read more at AOL Popeater
When producers realized they weren’t going to lure folks who still have lucrative careers, they turned to celebrities whose careers were on the wane. Enter Jennifer Lopez and Jessica Simpson. Jessica’s deal was scuttled by her manager/daddy Joe, who was reportedly impossible to deal with. Jennifer snagged the job via some very smooth politicking by her manager Benny Medina.
I’ll add more rumors as they arise today (TMZ? I’m waiting!)
I don’t know about you peeps, but I’m beginning to experience rumor fatigue….
