Adam Lambert Rumored To Be Next Idol Judge

First Published: July 9, 2012 6:56 PM EDT Credit: Getty Images

LOS ANGELES, Calif. -- Caption For those who are wondering whether “American Idol” can renew its vigor as the show enters its 12th season, a new judge might come along to spice up the panel.

According to E! News, a familiar face and former competitor is in negotiations to come back on the show as a possible new judge –Adam Lambert.

“They have been talking about Adam for over a month,” a source told E! News. “He personifies the show, and will be a popular choice right from the start. He knows what it’s like to be on the receiving end of the judges’ comments, he has a human touch, and they know they can’t go wrong if they bring him on. He would be able to bring a unique perspective to the show. People love him.”

Over the past few seasons, the “American Idol” panel of judges has gone through an almost complete transformation. Although Kara DioGuardi and Ellen DeGeneres entered the show right when Simon Cowell and Paula Abdul left for “The X Factor,” neither stayed on longer than two seasons.

Kara and Ellen were soon replaced in Season 9 by Steven Tyler and Jennifer Lopez – however, their “Idol” days may be numbered as well.

According to producer Nigel Lythgoe, viewers might be ready for a change.

“People are saying they’re too sweet and too nice, but once you’ve put somebody that you love in the top 10 and they’re coming every week and being good, it’s hard to critique,” E! News quoted the “Idol” boss as saying. “It’s not like dancing, where you can say point your toes, spread your legs. It’s more like, ‘When you hit that top note, just smile.’”

While it has been rumored that both Tyler and Lopez may not be returning for their third season, even seasoned veteran judge Randy Jackson might leave the show for good.

“Randy is great, but he’s part of the old ‘Idol,’” the source said. “They want to keep the soul of the show but have a new look, and for that reason he may well not be part of the new line up.”

Other judges in the mix for consideration reportedly include Miley Cyrus, Nicki Minaj, Fergie, Katy Perry and Will.i.am. According to E!, sources said “Idol” hopes having younger blood will help the show compete against “The X Factor,” which recently cast Britney Spears and Demi Lovato.

Although negotiations about the new judges are still underway, “Idol” fans can still expect a full season of quirky auditions, spontaneous personalities and – above all — stunning voices.

“There will be changes for sure, but nothing that stops it from what it is, which is an out and out talent show,” Nigel reportedly added.