After weeks of rumors and reports, Mariah Carey has officially announced that the singer will not be returning to "American Idol" next year.
Reuters reports that the singer will not be returning to the judging panel next year. Carey's publicist broke the news via twitter, saying in a tweet: "W/ global success of "#Beautiful" (#1 in 30+ countries so far) @MariahCarey confirms world tour & says goodbye 2 Idol mariahcarey.com."
Carey, 43, is planning on heading out on a world tour to promote her upcoming album and single "#Beautiful" featuring Miguel. Rumors have been running wild on whether the singer would be returning to the show.
Long time judge Randy Jackson had confirmed earlier this month that he would not be returning to the show next season after being a judge for 12 seasons. Nicki Minaj is also rumored to be leaving the reality competition and as for Keith Urban, there is no decision if he is staying or not. Urban has expressed hope that he would be returning to the reality show.
Carey reportedly was paid $18 million for the past season and much of the season was controversial as it was reported that she and Minaj were in the midst of a feud during the season.
Idol executives were looking to replace the entire judging panel due to the series seeing some of its lowest ratings in years. Jennifer Lopez is rumored to be returning to the show as are Idol alums Kelly Clarkson and Jennifer Hudson.
Idol returns to Fox in January.
