Despite reports to the contrary, American Idol is still down one judge as Dr. Luke has backed out of his previously announced role as a judge due to conflict of interest.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, Luke, whose real name is Lukasz Gottwald, signed a deal with Sony in 2011 which would make it impossible for him to support and create talent for its competitor, Universal, in which Idol is owned.
Luke’s credits include Kelly Clarkson’s “Since U Been Gone,” and “My Life Would Suck Without You,” Pink’s “Who Knew,” Katy Perry’s “I Kissed a Girl” and many others.
Luke officially inked a deal earlier this week which would have him join the likes of Keith Urban and Jennifer Lopez. Fox has not officially announced Lopez’s return, but Casper Smart, her backup dancer boyfriend, recently confirmed the news by accident in an interview.
It is unclear who Idol will reach for next to replace Dr. Luke’s spot on the talent show. Black Eyed Peas singer will.i.am recently declined an offer to judge, and rumors that Sean Combs and Kanye West have declined the job have surfaced.
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