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Report: Aretha Franklin Wants to be a Judge on 'American Idol'

Says she would bring in Patti LaBelle as a sidekick

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July 15, 2012 9:40 AM ET
aretha franklin
Aretha Franklin performs in New Orleans.
Erika Goldring/Getty Images

American Idol has had a tough week, with star hosts Steven Tyler and Jennifer Lopez both announcing that they're leaving the show within days of each other. But the enterprise could now finally see a change in its fortunes, thanks to the Queen of Soul.

CNN reports that in response to an e-mailed query, Aretha Franklin said that she is interested in joining the show as a judge. She said that she has been a longtime fan of the show as a viewer, and would like to take an more active role. She also added that she would bring Patti LaBelle to join her as sidekick. 

Fox has not yet commented on the possibility of adding the 18-time Grammy Award winner to the American Idol judges' table. 

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