Mariah Carey, \'Never a Fan of This Type of Thing,\' Tells How \'Idol\' Drew Her In

By BILL CARTER

The new superstar-stocked judging panel of “American Idol” was already at work Monday auditioning hopefuls at Jazz at Lincoln Center in Manhattan for a second day, having begun on Sunday immediately after announcing its new additions for the season.

The group, accompanied by the show's host, Ryan Seacrest, took a half-hour break to offer a few thoughts about the new season to a gathering of the press.

Mariah Carey, who turned up in a tight, pink dress, confessed that she had “never been a fan of this type of thing.” But she said she recognized what the show had done for some talented singers by “truly giving them careers.” She also cited the “panache that goes along with the brand” as a reason to overcome her initial reluctance to join.

Nicki Minaj, wearing a long, platinum blond wig and effulgent silver-glitter eye shadow, said she had been a follower and fan of the show since its inception, citing especially the year that Jordin Sparks won the title. She remembered “picking up the phone” to vote, though, she added, “I didn't vote for Jordin.” (She momentarily forgot who was the runner-up she voted for until a Fox staff member recalled the name: Blake Lewis.)

She called “Idol” a “credible brand,” and a “part of history,” which made it appealing for her to sign on. “Plus, I get to wear a lot of different wigs.”

The third newcomer, the country singer Keith Urban, called “American Idol” a “legendary show,” which he associated with the “American dream.” Coming from a small town in Australia to become a superstar in country music had made him a believer in that dream, he said.

With Randy Jackson as the holdover judge, the “Idol” panel now has an even number - four - which sets up the possibility for a split verdict on contenders. The show's executive producer, Nigel Lythgoe, said the sh ow had no set formula for breaking ties.

“We've changed it around all the time,” he said. “We're giving them all an opportunity to break the tie. They've got to try to persuade the others. Somebody always gives in and that generally means erring on the side of the positive.”

In the first two rounds of judging in New York, Mr. Lythgoe said, “we've already had three or four ties.”

Bill Carter writes about the television industry. Follow @wjcarter on Twitter.