LOS ANGELES — Jennifer Lopez’s future as a judge on “American Idol” looked uncertain Thursday as the singer refused to confirm whether she would sign up for the 10th season of the show.
The 41 year-old, who has boosted ratings and attracted rave reviews since joining eight months ago, has earned significantly less money from the show than fellow judge Steven Tyler.
Tyler, who is tied into a multi-year contract that ensures he will return through the 11th season alongside original judge Randy Jackson, reportedly raked in $18 million for the first season alone.
Lopez signed a single-year contract for a rumored $12 million — and now has to decide whether she wants to remain as a judge on the show next year or relaunch her pop career.
“It’s too early to tell,” said Lopez, who is believed to be in contract negotiations with FOX.
“Everyone has multiple-year contracts. Jennifer had [a] single-year contract. We loved having her — the hope and expectation is she’ll return,” FOX chief Peter Rice said earlier this week.
FOX is owned by News Corp., which also owns NewsCore.
