"American Idol" on FOX has clearly lost some of its luster.  

The reality singing show used to be a guaranteed ratings hit but has been dipping in popularity over the last several seasons.  It would be easy to come to the conclusion that with the over saturation of tv shows (The Voice, X-Factor) that not one can stick out anymore.  

However, "The Voice" which is currently in Season 4 on NBC has been a huge ratings success.  "The Voice" has discovered new elements like the "blind auditions" and "battle rounds", but the chemistry and camaraderie of the judges is really what makes the show so fun to watch.  They are constantly jabbing at each other in good fun and really seem to like each other and enjoy being on the show.  The viewing audience can tell and feeds off of that.  

Recognizing a chemistry problem on his show, last week, "American Idol" executive producer Nigel Lythgoe blamed this season's slumping ratings on a lack of judge chemistry, and then beloved original judge Paula Abdul made a surprise cameo on the program and even sat in her old center seat behind the judging table. 

A report just released  claims producers have secretly plotted to replace first time judge Mariah Carey, whose $18 million salary makes her the highest-paid judge on reality TV right now, with former judge Jennifer Lopez--in the middle of this current season!

According to The Hollywood Reporter, "Idol's" dastardly master plan was thwarted when Mariah threatened legal action. So it looks like there will be no change for the rest of this season (Season 12) but may replace the entire panel--including Mariah's controversial castmate Nicki Minaj, whose on going feud with Mariah has created backlash among conservative longtime viewers.

It makes for a good story to have a mid-season secret replacement, however as popular as J-Lo might be, she was not an extremely popular judge when she was on the show full time.  So to bring her back would most likely not created any type of big ratings boost. 

The talent has been great this year through all of the ratings problems with Angie Miller, Candice Glover and Kree Harrison being the favorites for the Top 3 this year on "American Idol".