The newest judges’ panel on “American Idol” is finally complete.
Hit music producer Dr. Luke — the man responsible for a few Katy Perry and Kelly Clarkson songs — has officially signed on to sit next to Jennifer Lopez and Keith Urban, E! News confirms.
Dr. Luke, whose real name is Lukasz Gottwald, 39, was said to be in talks for the gig after Black Eyed Peas rapper Will.i.am turned it down in favor of remaining a coach on the British version of “The Voice.”
“American Idol” has suffered a revolving door of celebrity judges, mentors and failed ratings in recent seasons.
The latest upheaval saw music producer Jimmy Iovine exit after three seasons, and the show scrambling to recover from the ratings slip that adding celebrity judges Nicki Minaj and Mariah Carey produced.All have been a result of the void left by show originator Simon Cowell, who departed in 2010 to start the American take on “X Factor.”
Longtime judge Randy Jackson also stepped down after the season 12 finale, after serving as the lone original judge, but hinted at the time that he would maintain a connection with “Idol.”The show’s resurge could come with the addition of Dr. Luke, and reappearance of Lopez. The singer’s boyfriend Casper Smart recently confirmed that she will be returning to the show for its 13th season.
