Nicki Minaj and Keith Urban have just been confirmed as new judges for the new series of American Idol.

The show moves into it’s twelfth series in January 2013, with auditions kicking off in the next few weeks and just moments ago, Fox have confirmed their all new lineup.

It was confirmed last week that Randy Jackson would be back, despite the fact that he announced his departure after Steven Tyler and Jennifer Lopez stepped down. Mariah Carey was also revealed to be taking her seat next to the producer at the judges table.

We now know that joining the famous pair will be rap star Nicki Minaj and country singer Keith Urban.

Minaj is best known for her worldwide chart topping hits such as “Starships,” while Urban is a four-time Grammy award winner with sales of 15 million albums under his belt and let’s not forget his A list marriage to Hollywood actress Nicole Kidman to boot.

There has been much speculation over who would be replacing the outgoing stars on the panel this year, with Katy Perry, Kanye West, Enrique Iglesias and former “American Idol” runner-up Adam Lambert all being linked to the roles.

Show creator Simon Fuller released a statement saying that with the lineup of Jackson, Carey, Urban and Minaj confirmed, “‘American Idol’s’ star power has never been so great.”

Ryan Seacrest revealed the news on twitter this afternoon, writing:

“It’s official, your new #IdolJudges are @MariahCarey, @NickiMinaj, @KeithUrban & @Yo_RandyJackson!”7

Minaj tweeted her followers confirming the news writing:

‘New York auditions today & tomorrow! See ya there barbz!!!!!!!!! #AmericanIdol :p’

Keith told his 438,000 followers:

‘SO excited to be joining the team on @AmericanIdol!!!!!! -KU #idoljudges’

Presenter Seacrest hosted a dinner for all the judges last night and revealed:

‘Everyone gave a heartfelt toast about being on the show after we ate last night. Cant wait to see the first contestants today. #IdolJudges’

What do you think of the American Idol lineup? Leave your comments below…