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Mariah Carey is going to be the new judge on American Idol.

The singer only signed her deal recently following the departure of Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler from the popular singing contest show.

Fox Entertainment president Kevin Reilly made the announcement during the executive session at the Television Critics Association event in Los Angeles today.

"We do in fact have one judge whose deal closed very recently," Kevin teased. "It's an artist that many contestants have tried to emulate."

He then called Mariah from the stage at the Beverly Hilton hotel because she couldn't be there in person.

"I am so excited to be joining Idol," Mariah gushed. "I can't wait to get started."

TMZ reports that the 42-year-old mother-of-two has signed a deal worth $12 million for the first year.

Only original remaining judge Randy Jackson is still not confirmed for a return.

With one more spot to fill at the judges table, it has been reported that Miley Cyrus or Adam Lambert may be chosen.

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