Lead singer Steven Tyler of Aerosmith will be the new judge next season on the American Idol show, according to band member and bassists of Aerosmith, Tom Hamilton. In a recent interview, Hamilton said, “Steven is doing American Idol. The ink is dry on that.” Reportedly, Tyler signed a contract to replace Simon Cowell on Wednesday August 18.
American Idol will be entering its tenth season with only one of its original judges. Randy Jackson is the lone man standing after both Paula Abdul and Simon Cowell have parted ways with the hit talent show.
Ratings are down 20% from their top in 2006. During it’s the peak an average 30 million viewers tuned in. Michael Schneider, TV editor of Variety, told CBS News, “It had an off year. It actually had an off couple of years. It’s not the same show we used to watch.” Producers expect Tyler’s notoriety, as well as his personality to give the show a much-needed jolt.
Hamilton has taken the stage with the front man of Aerosmith, Tyler, for nearly 20 years. He gave this comment regarding Tyler’ success on the show, “Steven is someone who absolutely lives to be in front of an audience, and the people closest to him know how witty and entertaining he can be.”
Before the Tyler signing, People Magazine and other sources were indicating Shania Twain and Jennifer Lopez as the next possible replacements for Simon Cowell. The American Idol show airs on the Fox broadcasting network.