It is being reported that Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler did not actually quit American Idol… they were fired!

Both Idol judges were dumped by producers and the statements released saying they had quite were just for show.

But why fire Jennifer Lopez, weren’t producers falling all over themselves to keep her?

Well according to reports, last season Jennifer made 15 million, but this time around she was asking for $17 million. The producers not only said no, they also decided to not pick her up for the next season.

As for Tyler there were no negotiations, he was simply not renewed.

The last remaining judge, Randy Jackson, is also set to be removed from the show, but that has not become official as of yet.

So who will fill the three empty seats?

Well one very famous singer is vying for the judging role… Aretha Franklin!

When asked if she would join the show, the Queen of Soul replied via email, “Yes, I am interested as a judge.”

Fox has yet to comment on Franklin’s interest, but I think it might be a good fit.