Mariah Carey: J-Lo's American Idol Replacement?

It's official that Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler are leaving American Idol after two seasons as judges on the hit reality television show. With two of the three chairs on the tribunal empty, rumors are swirling as to who will fill the slots.

People's website is reporting that another musical powerhouse is a possible replacement the mega-stars. A source confirms to the magazine that Mariah Carey is interested in the gig. "She's in play," the source said. "They're in serious talks."

Although Lopez cites wanting time with Max and Emme,her children with ex-husband Marc Anthony, as part of her reason for leaving the singing competition, Carey, 42, is up for the challenge of balancing the show with her twins, Monroe and Moroccan.

The original judges of the show were Simon Cowell Paula Abdul, and Randy Jackson. Jackson is the only one of the original three who is still part of the series. Perhaps his involvement is part of the reason why Carey is interested in the job. After all, Jackson and Carey have collaborated over the years.

Carey has been in front of the camera before. She's had roles in films like The Bachelor and Glitter. If she reaches a deal to be a judge on American Idol, however, it will be her first time on a recurring, weekly show. Her husband of four years, Nick Cannon, might be able to able her some pointers. He has been the host of America's Got Talent since 2009.