‘Idol’ hopefuls at New Jersey tryouts are split on who should sit at the judges’ table. By Kara Warner, with reporting by MTV News staff Jennifer Lopez Photo: Kevin Mazur/WireImage It seems like every day brings some new bit of “American Idol” insider information or speculation. With the ratings juggernaut being down two judges — Simon Cowell and Ellen DeGeneres — and the future uncertain for Kara DioGuardi and Randy Jackson , the rumor mill has been in overdrive. The first round of rumored replacements — Elton John, Justin Timberlake and Jessica Simpson — have fallen through, and Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler’s names have since dominated the conversation. Following up on fans’ reactions to DeGeneres’ exit and Ryan Seacrest’s recent comments that the judges might not be officially in place for weeks, MTV News hit up the “Idol” auditions in New Jersey on Tuesday (August 3) to see what the aspiring singers had to say about who would make the better judge: Lopez or Tyler. “Steven Tyler,” “Idol” wannabe Lindsey Laird said without hesitation. “Because he’s awesome. He’s from Aerosmith. That’s amazing.” Devon Michael sided with La Lopez. “That would be such an honor to stand in front of Jennifer Lopez after watching her for so many years,” he said. “She’s just versatile. She dances, she sings, she acts — it’s really admirable. She’s an inspiration to all the people here.” “I know who would be better looking,” Ben Anderton teased, before putting his support behind Tyler. “I actually think Steven Tyler would [be a better judge]. He’d give better feedback to the contestants about performance. The guy is a fantastic performer.” The Lopez fans, including enthusiastic supporter Shannon Leet, cited the “Jenny From the Block” singer’s versatility as one of her strongest qualifications. “I’ve wanted to meet her since I was a little girl,” Leet explained. “She’s an entrepreneur, actress, singer, dancer — she’s amazing.” Those in the Tyler camp were equally insistent, however, even if their enthusiasm had them thinking Tyler and Lopez were already on the audition premises. “I can’t wait to see him. I want to try and impress him,” Freddie Sosa said. “To me, he’s like a legend. I love his songs, I love his band. I’m looking forward to seeing him.” What do you think of Lopez’s and Tyler’s possible spots on the “Idol” judges’ table? Share your replacement ideas in the comments! Get your “Idol” fix on MTV News’ “American Idol” page , where you’ll find all the latest news, interviews and opinions. Related Videos Ellen DeGeneres Leaves ‘American Idol’ Related Photos Who Should Be The Next ‘American Idol’ Judge? Related Artists Jennifer Lopez
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‘American Idol’ Auditioners Weigh In: Jennifer Lopez Or Steven Tyler?
