Mariah Carey is reportedly about to sign on to become one of American Idol’s new judges in a deal that could be worth close to $17 million per year.

Randy Jackson, a judge on the show and Mariah’s manager, has been pursuing the singer since Jennifer Lopez announced her departure. 

Carey’s husband, Nick Cannon, didn’t think the show would have enough money to afford his wife, "I don't know if they can afford Mariah Carey," he told TMZ.  "That's a lot of money."

Despite her hubby’s comments, Mariah’s new contract, if accepted, will surpass Britney Spears’ $15 million paycheck on X Factor.

Other potential candidates for the job include veteran soul singer, Aretha Franklin, who happily volunteered herself to fill the spot.

In an email to CNN, the Queen of Soul was quoted saying that she’d like to join the judges panel and even suggested Patti LaBelle as a third judge.