People News

Victoria Beckham to be Idol judge

Aug 6, 2009, 9:37 GMT

The 35-year-old star has reportedly been approached by the show\'s producer Simon Fuller - who managed the Spice Girls and is an advisor to Victoria\'s husband David - about replacing Paula Abdul on the popular US TV series. EPA/MATTEO BAZZI

Victoria Beckham is set to become a judge on 'American Idol'.

The 35-year-old star has reportedly been approached by the show's producer Simon Fuller - who managed the Spice Girls and is an advisor to Victoria's husband David - about replacing Paula Abdul on the popular US TV series.

Paula revealed she was quitting yesterday (05.08.09). It is believed she made the decision following a row over pay.

Victoria - whose spouse David has had heated exchanges with angry Los Angeles Galaxy supporters since expressing his wish to join a European club - is due to begin filming auditions for the new series tomorrow (07.08.09).

A source said: "Victoria is hugely flattered as this is one of the highest profile shows in America. It is a really big deal. Her husband David may be having a hard time at the moment but Victoria's profile Stateside has never been higher.

"The show needs a big star. It would be an incredible coup to get her. She was in one of the biggest girl groups in history so she knows what she is talking about. Simon Fuller is now speaking to her."

It is believed Victoria - who has launched a career as a fashion designer since quitting the music industry - has agreed a fee of £155,000 to appear in two episodes of American Idol'.

However, show bosses are hoping they can persuade her to take on the role permanently.

The source added: "Network bosses would love to give her the job full-time and it looks like it is there for her if she wants it. But at the moment, Victoria's main priority is fashion. She doesn't really need any distractions. She will be back at New York fashion week in September to launch her 2010 collection.

"However, Victoria's appearance on 'American Idol' is sure to provide a massive ratings boost in the UK so everyone's a winner."

'American Idol' - which is hosted by Ryan Seacrest and judged by Simon Cowell, Randy Jackson and Kara DioGuardi - is the most popular show in the US. The last series attracted an average of 26 million viewers per episode.

This isn't the first time the 35-year-old star has been linked to a talent show.

Earlier this year, Victoria was said to be in "advanced talks" about becoming a judge on UK TV talent series 'The X Factor'.