American Idol Judges Rumors: Is Jennifer Lopez Set to Return to the Panel?

Fox execs have confirmed Jennifer Lopez is in talks to return as a judge on the new season of "American Idol."

"There have been discussions," said Fox Entertainment Chairman Kevin Reilly.

Reilly's statements have been echoed by another source close to the starlet who told People Magazine that Lopez is close to sealing the deal.

"[She] is very close to signing a deal with Fox to return to 'American Idol' next season," the source shared. "Both Fox and Jennifer are very happy about this and want it to happen very much."

The rumor comes after recent speculation that Lopez was in talks to join rival reality singing competition "The Voice," but was turned down.

"Jennifer never had discussions with NBC about being a judge," the source shared. "She was approached by NBC about performing [on the show] but had to turn it down because of scheduling conflicts."

Lopez originally joined "Idol" as a judge in 2010, but left the program after two seasons to focus on other career goals.

"She couldn't return last year because she had committed to a world tour," the source dished. "But now that the tour is over, she has more time to raise her family, do movies and pursue television projects."

Lopez enjoyed a successful stint on "Idol," which later plunged to its worst ratings ever during its last season.

Much of "Idol's" failure has been blamed on the poor chemistry between new judges Nicki Minaj and Mariah Carey, both of whom will not be returning next season.

"American Idol" vet Randy Jackson will also be absent from next season's panel, but Keith Urban, who just joined the cast last year, will be coming back.

"Keith did a great job last year. The fans really liked him," said Reilly. "Keith's a really funny guy and you could see how much he loved the show."

While the judging panel seems to be getting most of the "Idol" attention as of late, Reilly insists the new season will be all about the contestants, and less about the celebrity talent.

Other judges have yet to be confirmed.