Will Mariah Carey Or Aretha Franklin Join ‘American Idol’?

According to husband Nick Cannon, ‘Idol’ might not be able to afford Mariah.

After the announcement that “American Idol” judges Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler will not be returning to the panel for a third season, fans of the singing completion have been speculating just who could replace the pair.

While everyone from Nicki Minaj to Katy Perry has been proposed, one person almost everyone had overlooked has just thrown her name in the ring: Aretha Franklin. In an email to CNN, the 70-year-old Queen of Soul expressed a little R-E-S-P-E-C-T for “Idol,” saying she’d like to come onboard for the 12th season. And according to the news outlet, she wouldn’t want to come alone, suggesting Patti LaBelle join her and “Idol” veteran Randy Jackson.

Another big name that has surfaced as a potential replacement is Mariah Carey. However, the superstar’s hubby, Nick Cannon, isn’t quite certain “Idol” has deep enough pockets.

“I don’t know if they can afford Mariah Carey,” Cannon told TMZ on Sunday. “That’s a lot of money.”

Exactly how much does Cannon think his wifey is worth? “If they gave J.Lo $20 million, they might have to double that,” Cannon replied.

This isn’t the first time Mimi has been rumored as the next “Idol” judge. In 2010, the songstress was reportedly considered for the 10th season after the show originally passed on J.Lo.