`` American Idol '' now has its panel of judges for next season . Fox has announced that singers Jennifer Lopez and Harry Connick Jr. will join last season 's judge , country star Keith Urban , at the judges table for Season 13 . `` I have always been a huge fan of 'American Idol ' and really enjoyed my time as a mentor on the show , '' Connick said in Fox 's statement . `` And I am honored that they 've asked me to be a judge this season . As an entertainer , I am truly excited to bring my perspective to 'American Idol , ' and to help emerging performers find their way . '' Lopez , who served as a judge during Season 11 , tweeted : `` # IDOL2014TheRemix . '' The seats have been vacant since Mariah Carey and Nicki Minaj announced that they would not be returning after their stints judging arguably the country 's most successful singing competition . Former judge Randy Jackson will step into the role of in-house mentor for the contestants , it was announced . `` Surprise , surprise ! I am so happy to be back as part of this amazing show that started it all , '' said Jackson , who had served as a judge on the show since the first season . `` Season 1-3 is the place to be . The original talent show is back with a vengeance and ready to discover the best talent in America . '' Urban also expressed his excitement . `` I think this season of 'Idol ' is gon na be a blast , '' the Fox statement quoted Urban as saying . `` New team , new energy and a whole new field of artists to be discovered and given a chance ! '' The new season of `` Idol '' is slated to begin in January .
Lopez is returning to `` American Idol '' Harry Connick Jr. had served as a past mentor . Randy Jackson will be the in-house mentor instead of a judge .