Mariah Carey has become the highest paid reality show judge in TV history after signing a one-year deal with “American Idol” worth about $18 million.

Carey’s deal trumps the $12 million Jennifer Lopez got when she joined the judge’s table 2 years ago, and it’s also more than the $15 million Britney Spears gets for “X Factor.”

MC expressed her excitement about working on “American Idol” on Twitter:

Though no announcement has been made on a third judge, or whether or not Randy Jackson will be returning, Ryan Seacrest will definitely be back as the show’s host.

Former head judge Simon Cowell was asked about Mariah Carey joining American Idol. “I’m happy for her, actually,” he said. “I like Mariah. I think she’s going to find it difficult to say no. I think she’ll be great.”

What do you think about Mariah Carey judging on American Idol?

Be the first to receive breaking news alerts and more stories like this by subscribing to our mailing list.