Casper Smart, Jennifer Lopez's boyfriend, accidentally revealed to E! News that the "Live It Up" singer will be returning as a judge for season 13 of "American Idol."
Smart was chatting with E! to promote his new show "A Step Away" for Nuvo TV when he was asked if Lopez would come back as a judge.
"Yes," he said.
Apparently Smart must have thought Fox had already confirmed the return but there hasn't been any official announcement about who would be joining Keith Urban at the judges table. It had been rumored for months that Lopez would be back.
"Returning to 'American Idol' makes sense for Jennifer for this season," a source told E!. "As the show's schedule will allow her to focus on new film and TV projects."
The source also said that her twins, Max and Emme, are starting school this year and the schedule will allow her to spend more time with her family. Fox Network President said during a press conference at the Television Critics Association that Lopez had been approached in hopes of persuading her to return to the show.
"Jennifer has been a close part of the show all along... there have been discussions there," he said.
Host Ryan Seacrest told E! recently that the cast would be announced "very, very soon" but wouldn't give away any details. No one knew Smart would accidentally spill the details.
Other names rumored as new judges have been Jennifer Hudson, Kelly Clarkson, Clay Aiken and Adam Lamber. All of them were former contestants of the singing competition show. Also rumored at one point as judges were Will.i.am, Katy Perry, Miley Cyrus and Fergie.
Season 13 of "American Idol" returns January 2014.
