Fantasia Barrino Reveals Thoughts About New 'American Idol' Judges
Fantasia Barrino has expressed her feelings about "American Idol" judges Nicki Minaj and Mariah Carey amid rumors that the latter could possibly be replaced by former judge Jennifer Lopez.
Barrino, 28, won the third season of the nationally televised singing competition "American Idol" in 2004. Although she recently released her fourth studio album Side Effects of You, Barrino also expressed her opinion about the new judges on the singing competition.
"I'll always miss Paula and Simon because those were the judges when I was on but I would say in everything you do there has to be change," Barrino told VH1 recently.
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Despite the on-screen feud that has taken place between rapper Minaj, 30, and Carey 43-year-old singer-songwriter, Carey, Barrino made it clear that both add their own elements to the show.
"I mean Mariah Carey she is music…it's always good to have somebody that can hold weight like she does on 'American Idol.' I was a little nervous singing in front of her," Barrino revealed to VH1. "And Nicki Minaj she brings a different swag she's a rebel and I like that about her. She does things her way and I seem to be the same way. So it's all good."
When she was questioned about rumors of Carey being replaced by former judge and entertainer Lopez, Barrino did not think it was the best idea.
"I would say bring J.Lo on, but don't take Mariah off," Barrino told VH1.
Although The Hollywood Reporter allegedly garnered a source confirming the rumors of Lopez replacing Carey, a Fox spokesperson said the claims were unfounded.
"This is just another ridiculous 'Idol' judge rumor, likely started by talks of Jennifer performing on the finale," a Fox spokeswoman told THR recently.
Nigel Lythgoe, a producer for Fox's "American Idol," echoed the network spokesperson's sentiments.
"I have not been included in any conversation regarding replacing Mariah with Jen this season," Lythgoe said, according to MTV.
