Keith Urban Quits The Voice in Australia Amid American Idol Rumors
Keith Urban
Keith Urban has left his position as a coach on the Australian version of The Voice, fueling speculation that he will be joining American Idol as a judge for its upcoming season.
"I've been so fortunate to have been a part of The Voice," Urban said in a statement released by Australia's Nine Network, which airs the show. "And as much as I'd love to do it again, it's clear that the recording and promoting of a new album, a tour and other commitments, will keep me from being a part of the second season."
Nicki Minaj and Keith Urban nearing American Idol deals
Earlier this year, Nine had said that all of the members of the coaches panel — Urban, Seal, Delta Goodrem and Joel Madden — would be returning in 2013. After announcing Urban's departure Thursday, the network's director of television, Michael Healy, said they were "in negotiations with superstar musicians" to replace Urban.
Urban and Nicki Minaj are reportedly in final negotiations to join Mariah Carey and Randy Jackson as judges on American Idol.