Jennifer Hudson set to return to American Idol as a judge

After clearing the judges' slate, American Idol executives have reportedly signed one of its biggest success stories, Jennifer Hudson, to help others follow in her famous footsteps.

After a lackluster season that was full of music's biggest - and most expensive - talents, Fox is changing its game plan.

On Friday, E! News reported that Jennifer had been signed up by the long running talent show that launched the star's own career.



Loosing weight, gaining jobs: American Idol executives have reportedly signed one of its biggest success stories, Jennifer Hudson, to judge next season's show

E! reported 'multiple sources' had confirmed that Oscar-winning singer 'has signed a deal to sit at the judges' table this fall for season 13'.

However, there has been no word yet how much the star - who converted her Idol fame into an Oscar win for Dreamgirls - will be paid.

While the 31-year-old did not win season three, she was one of the most popular singers to ever walk across the Idol stage.




Still a winner: The 31-year-old did not win season 3 of the show but managed to convert her Idol fame into an Oscar win for Dreamgirls

And she is not the only Idol alum reportedly preparing to sit down at the judges' table, which will once again be a three person panel.

E! said on Friday the other two spots are also intended for former Idol contestants with first season winner Kelly Clarkson the front runner and the third spot to go to either Adam Lambert or Clay Aiken.

'We're told that Clarkson is also close to signing on,' the site reported.



Not the only one: Fox is also reportedly trying to sign other former Idol alums with Kelly Clarkson, seen her last month, the front runner

In its thirtieth season, Idol has far more competition from a plethora of singing shows than ever before and fared not as well this season, prompting Fox to dump current panelists Mariah Carey, Nicki Minaj and Keith Urban.

Veteran judge Randy Jackson revealed his exit earlier this month.

The casting of alums is to remind viewers of just how successful the show has been in manufacturing hugely successful stars that have world wide careers long after Idol.







Judge battle: Being considered for the third spot is Clay Aiken and Adam Lambert

'It's Idol alums bringing in the next generation,' a Fox source told the website.

As with other years, Fox and Fremantal media have stayed quite on who will be sitting behind the table.




See you later: All of the current panelists Mariah Carey, Nicki Minaj, Keith Urban and veteran judge Randy Jackson have left
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