Steven Tyler, Jennifer Lopez Named New 'American Idol' Judges

Sept. 22, 2010— -- "American Idol" has a new team at the top: Steven Tyler, Jennifer Lopez and veteran Randy Jackson.

In a live news conference broadcast today on AmericanIdol.com, "Idol" host Ryan Seacrest announced a refreshed lineup of judges for the hit reality competition series, which begins auditions for its 10th season this month.

"You can do anything you want in this life," Lopez told Seacrest and a crowd of "Idol" hopefuls after the announcement. "You just have to concentrate on the goal and do the best you can."

In a statement released by Fox after the news conference, Lopez added, "For nine years, I've enjoyed watching artists compete to get a meaningful chance to achieve their dreams. I know from my own experience how hard it is to succeed, and I'm looking forward to discovering and nurturing that spirit in the many 'American Idol' contestants I look forward to meeting this year."

In the same statement, Tyler said, "I've been on tour for most of my life in a band with four guys who judge me every day. Sometimes it hurt, but it only made me stronger.

"I want to give everybody a little love before I decide who goes home heartbroken. If you don't like what I say, don't get mad, get better. I'm ready to bring some rock to this 'roller' coaster and show these kids if they have the dream, the talent and the drive, they will be the next American Idol."

The new panel couldn't come sooner for "Idol." The show lost almost all its top personalities this year -- Simon Cowell, Ellen DeGeneres and Kara DioGuardi.

For months, Lopez and Tyler were rumored to be at the top of show judges' wish list. Tyler confirmed last month that he was fully aboard, responding to the "Idol" speculation with the declaration, "I'm doing it. What do you think? I'm doing it," after a Las Vegas concert.

Getting Lopez on board was reportedly held up by her attempts to negotiate a television and movie development deal along with the "Idol" stint. Indeed, she got more than a judging job with "Idol." Today, Fox said Lopez has signed a deal with Twentieth Century Fox Films and Fox Broadcasting Co. to create future film and TV projects.