Mariah Carey in 'Serious Talks' to join American Idol

Mariah Carey is in "serious talks" to become the next American Idol judge, reports PEOPLE this morning.

If "serious" they mean that FOX is offering her more than $15 million that The X Factor is paying Britney Spears, then I'll believe it. Mariah is notorious for her diva demands -- and FOX will literally have to offer American Idol on a silver platter to her if they want her to be the next face of the show.

I am skeptical. It would be more cost-effective to get Adam Lambert and another second-stringer to join Randy Jackson on the panel. People will still watch.

From PEOPLE:

Upon Steven Tyler's confirmation that he will not return to the American Idol judges' table – and amid buzz that Jennifer Lopez is likely following in his footsteps – Carey, 42, may be making her way to the Fox singing competition.

"She's in play," an insider tells PEOPLE. "They are in serious talks."