Mariah Carey, Nicki Minaj Officially Leaving 'American Idol'

It's official.

Mariah Carey will not return to judge "American Idol," TMZ reports. Earlier this month Carey also dropped former "Idol" judge Randy Jackson as her manager, signing on to Red Light Management.

Nicki Minaj has followed suit. While rumors had already predicted the songstress would be leaving the show, she officially Tweeted her good-byes Thursday:

@NICKIMINAJ - Thank you American Idol for a life changing experience! Wouldn't trade it for the world! Time to focus on the Music!!! Mmmuuuaahhh!!!

While speculation arose over Minaj's potential departure because of Carey, sources tell TMZ that a regime change in the judging lineup has been on "Idol's" agenda all along. Minaj's Tweet seems nothing more than amicable towards the show and her colleague, Carey. (Based on past drama, since there was nothing bad to say, we are assuming that's good.)

Despite theories that the Minaj and Carey battle was boosting "American Idol" ratings, the drama may have done just the opposite. The show's judging upheaval could be an attempt at turning its ratings around since season 12 received its lowest numbers response since their first season, MTV says. Last week, former "American Idol" contestant Jennifer Hudson was rumored to sit on the next judge's panel.

Carey had also allegedly given indications she may quit the show because of the tension between her and Minaj, according to The Los Angeles Times. But Carey won't be without work. Her publicity firm PMK announced her departure from "American Idol" and also that the pop-diva is embarking on a world tour, according to MTV.

So far, there has been no mention of Keith Urban's fate on the show.