See why we’re adding loads of sugar to our brew:
• The upcoming season of American Idol will look totally new—judges’ panel included. On Thursday, Mariah Carey and Nicki Minaj confirmed their departure via Twitter. Carey announced she’ll be embarking on a world tour in the coming months while Minaj will turn her attention to music. Both shared their appreciation for Idol. Randy Jackson announced his departure before the season ended and Keith Urban has yet to make any sort of announcement regarding his position. Yesterday’s news comes days after Jennifer Hudson was rumored to be negotiating a position on the show. [CNN]
• Forest Whitaker could be playing Martin Luther King, Jr. in the upcoming film about his life, Memphis. The Oscar winner is said to be in talks to portray the leader. However, the film has had trouble getting off the ground since it was announced several years ago—among the issues Universal pulling out of the project for scheduling and money issues. The film, directed by Paul Greengrass, is scheduled to begin shooting soon. [Slash Film]
• Venus and Serena Williams suddenly pulled out yesterday’s doubles match at the French Open. No official reason was given. However, Venus complained of back pain during her singles set last weekend. [ESPN]
• Tyler Perry’s Love Thy Neighbor premiere on Wednesday became OWN’s second highest series debut ever. The show earned 1.65 million viewers during its first episode and it grew to 1.8 million in its second. Perry’s first drama, The Haves and the Have Nots which aired the day before, broke ratings records for OWN. [EURweb]