American Idol 'alum' Kelly Clarkson, Jennifer Hudson may return as judges

Former 'American Idol' contestants Kelly Clarkson and Jennifer Hudson are set to return to the show as judges.

Clarkson won the first season in 2002 and Hudson was placed seventh in 2004. The singers have been approached by producers to join the panel of the new series after they decided to replace Mariah Carey, Nicki Minaj and Keith Urban, reported E! online.

Veteran judge Randy Jackson recently quit the show and bosses want to return to a three person format, with Clay Aiken and Adam Lambert among those who have been approached to take the final spot.

"Nothing is final yet, it's 95 percent there. The alum panel will be Fox's attempt to reignite ratings by bringing back 'Idol' faces that the fans care about. It's 'Idol' stars guiding the next generation," a source said.

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The decision to return to a three judge format for the first time in five years was reportedly made in a bid to combat the Fox show's declining ratings as it enters its 13th season.

"The format will have fresh twists for next season," Kevin Reilly, Fox's entertainment chairman, said.

PTI