The judging panel on American Idol next year will be a mash-up of pop, R&B/rap and country. And now, there might also be the addition of a Latin artist into the mix, as Enrique Iglesias has been offered the fourth and final spot at the table that will consist of Mariah Carey and, once confirmed, Nicki Minaj and Keith Urban. According to EW, "We're hearing Iglesias has received an offer for about $4 million per year, on par with Urban's deal," though Deadline has different figures ($10-12 million for Iglesias and $3-5 million for Urban).

But just because he has received this offer doesn't mean he's a lock to be a judge. "Iglesias has a history of turning down reality show offers," says EW, "but may very well sign on to Idol. He was previously offered a spot hosting X Factor, and was in talks with NBC for The Voice." The opportunity, though, to snag such a high profile gig comes at just the right time for the Latin singer, as he recently wrapped up a world tour with none other than Jennifer Lopez, who quit Idol earlier this summer.

So the question then becomes, what if he does turn down the offer, as history suggests he might? Interestingly, a certain season 8 runner-up's name is still popping up in these reports: "Iglesias (or, if he passes, Adam Lambert) could fill a fourth spot." Because Lambert is supposedly still being considered, it seems as if Idol is keeping him in the mix not only as a low-budget option, but also as a backup plan if a deal falls through with their first choice, in this case, Iglesias.

The producers and executives don't have the luxury of time on their side to delay this any further, with auditions set to begin soon: "According to industry insiders, FOX appears to have settled on a quartet of judges for the upcoming 12th season of American Idol with not a moment to spare as taped auditions are eyed to begin as early as next week." Talk about dragging this out to the last second.

If he accepts the offer, will Enrique Iglesias be a good addition to the show (or are you still holding out hope for Adam Lambert)? Or do you think he'll turn it down as he's done with The X Factor and The Voice?


(Image courtesy of WENN)