Keith Urban ‘Looks Set to Return’ to ‘American Idol’

It's been rumored that Keith Urban may be the only judge from Season 12 of 'American Idol' to return this year, and now a published report appears to confirm that.

According to the industry trade publication Hollywood Reporter, Urban "looks set to return" to this year's judging panel. Fellow Season 12 judges Mariah Carey and Nicki Minaj announced they were leaving the venerable reality singing competition amid rumors that Fox — unhappy with last year’s ratings — intended to replace them. Also out is longtime judge Randy Jackson, who announced his departure before last season was even complete.

The show's new creative team is reportedly talking to Jennifer Lopez about returning to 'Idol,' and Jennifer Hudson has long been rumored as a possibility for this year's panel. Fellow alumni Kelly Clarkson, Clay Aiken and Adam Lambert have also been mentioned as possible judges for this season.

Fox has made no announcement regarding the panel for Season 13 of ‘American Idol,' but host  Ryan Seacrest recently hinted that the judge's chairs have already been filled. “Based on what I have heard, the audience that watches ‘American Idol’ is going to be very excited about the panel that we’ve put together for this Season 13,” he declared. “It’s a very special season. And I think you’ll see some good chemistry this year.”

Keith Urban has stated that he is interested in judging again this year. So far he has neither confirmed nor denied his involvement in Season 13 of 'American Idol.'