Jennifer Hudson Joins AMERICAN IDOL's Judges' Panel!

According to numerous reports, Oscar-winner and season 3 contender Jennifer Hudson has officially signed on to join AMERICAN IDOL's judges' panel.

Rumors as to whether Idol winner Kelly Clarkson will join her are largely back-and-forth. Yesterday, the singer's reps told The Hollywood Reporter that she will not be returning to the program - however, E! claims that sources have confirmed that Clarkson's "close to signing on."

With one slot left on the season 13 panel left, execs are gunning for either Adam Lambert or Clay Aiken - both singers were the runners-up on their respective seasons.

"It's IDOL alums bringing in the next generation," a FOX insider told the publication.

IDOL staple Randy Jackson announced recently that he would be exiting the show come next season. Reports have also arisen that IDOL execs letting Keith Urban, Mariah Carey, Nicki Minaj, and long-time producer Nigel Lythgoe go, as well.

Audition cities and dates for IDOL Season 13 include Salt Lake City on Wednesday, July 10; San Francisco, CA, on Tuesday, July 16; Detroit, MI, on Sunday, July 21; Atlanta, GA, on Friday, July 26; Boston, MA, on Friday, Aug. 2; Austin, TX, on Wednesday, Aug. 7; and Omaha, NE, on Sunday, Aug. 11.

IDOL hopefuls also can audition for the upcoming 13th season at www.americanidol.com, by submitting an audition video online. Entrants should demonstrate their stellar singing ability by performing a song of their choice a cappella. Videos are limited to one submission per person.

Hudson has also appeared on TV in NBC's SMASH and won an Oscar, a Golden Globe, a BAFTA, a Screen Actors Guild Award and an NAACP Image Award for her performance in the film Dreamgirls.

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