Jennifer Lopez 'Very Close' to 'American Idol' Return

Singer and actress Jennifer Lopez is closing a deal to return as a judge on popular TV show "American Idol" for next year's season, Fox News reported. The Puerto-Rican born artist served as a judge during Seasons 10 and 11, alongside Aerosmith's singer Steven Tyler and legendary judge Randy Jackson. Fox announced that fourth judge Keith Urban would return to the show, while Lopez is rumored to join him soon.

Urban shared his excitement with his fans through his Twitter account: "Thrilled to be back on @AmericanIdol with my pal @RyanSeacrest," he tweeted Thursday. "Dying to know who the other judges will be!!!!" ABC reported.

According to Fox News, a formal announcement on the singer's return is expected to be made during the next week or two, although it was reported the show's producers were looking forward bringing back past contestants as judges for the 2014's season.

A source told People magazine that Lopez's was "very close to signing a deal with Fox to return to American Idol next season," and that "both Fox and Jennifer are very happy about this and want it to happen very much." According to People, Lopez had to go on a world tour to promote her music and that is why she turned down Fox's previous offer.

"She couldn't return last year because she had committed to a world tour. But now that the tour is over, she has more time to raise her family, do movies and pursue television projects," the source said, explaining why Lopez is expected to return for a third season.

The "Jenny from the Block" singer was reportedly in talks with TV show "The Voice's" producers to participate as a mentor and performer, but the source told People Magazine that those rumors were false. "Jennifer never had discussions with NBC about being a judge. She was approached by NBC about performing but had to turn it down because of scheduling conflicts."

Lopez is currently the creative director for NUVOtv, where she helps design content specifically for Latino audiences in the United States. She recently received the "World Icon" award at the "Premios Juventud," hosted by Univisión, a distinction given to Hispanic artists who have achieved global fame. The previous winner was Lopez's ex-husband Marc Anthony.