Is J-Lo In?

This is all getting pretty crazy, so just bear with me…

Deadline.com is reporting that Jennifer Lopez has been signed as a judge for “Idol.” According to the site, the deal was made this week, which is why Ellen DeGeneres went ahead with her announcement.

Both Deadline.com and USMagazine.com is reporting that Aerosmith’s Steven Tyler has been offered a slot on the panel as well.

USMagazine.com is also reporting that Kara DioGuardi has been fired and will not return. If this report is true—and you know I’m hoping—it wouldn’t technically be a firing since her contract was year-to-year. It would just be a non-renewal. I’m sure her people and FOX will spin it nicely.

There was also an interesting tidbit in “The Hollywood Reporter” about Ellen’s departure: “A source in the DeGeneres camp said she was prepared to meet the terms of her multiyear contract but told friends that her comedy wasn't effective on the show and that FOX president of alternative entertainment Mike Darnell had told her privately that he blamed her chemistry with fellow judges Randy Jackson and Kara DioGuardi.”

When I said last night that I didn’t buy it, I meant that I didn’t buy that the exit had been planned for months. But now I’m starting to. I think Ellen knew it wasn’t working and she saw a way out and took it. I actually respect her for that.

On the other hand, I’m not really sure what to say about Jennifer Lopez. The “Reporter” story says that the producers consider her the best “Idol” mentor ever. I agree that she was really good, but judging is different—unless they plan to take a page out of Simon Cowell’s “X Factor” book and have the judges mentor the contestants.

Hmmmm…

And let’s not forget Randy Jackson. He reportedly has one year left on his contract, so he might end up sticking around. But at this point, anything is possible.

It’s important to note that the J-Lo or Kara stories have not been confirmed by FOX. As soon as something is, I will pass it along to you…