A bonafide fan favorite, Jennifer Lopez is officially returning to American Idol for its 13th season.

Thanks to J. Lo’s boyfriend Casper, rumors swarmed about the 44-year-old entertainer’s AI comeback for weeks, but today Fox network released an official statement regarding the pop superstar and her new co-judges, Harry Connick Jr., Keith Urban and Randy Jackson, who has taken the role of in-house mentor.

“American Idol has always been about discovering the next singing superstar, and next season our judging panel will deliver a most impressive combination of talent, wisdom, and personality to do just that,” said Kevin Reilly, Fox Entertainment Chairman. “Jennifer Lopez, the triple-threat global superstar who loves Idol and whom Idol fans love; Harry Connick, Jr., a bonafide musical genius and fantastic Idol mentor whose honesty and expertise can help turn these hopefuls into stars; Keith Urban, a multi-Grammy-winning artist who was such a positive force on the show last season.”

After Mariah Carey and Nicki Minaj’s onscreen feud not only keeping viewers tuned into last season’s competition but also attracting negative attention to the show, producers cleaned house looking to start fresh. It’s no surprise that Minaj and Carey’s fellow judge Keith Urban, who was often caught in the catty crossfire, hopes for better vibes as well. “I think this season of Idol is gonna be a blast,” said Keith Urban. “New team, new energy, and a whole new field of artists to be discovered and given a chance!”

American Idol (and J. Lo) will return to TV screens in January.