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Nigel Lythgoe keeps J.Lo 'Idol' judge rumors alive

By April MacIntyre Aug 13, 2010, 21:10 GMT

06/10/2010 - Marc Anthony and Jennifer Lopez - Jennifer Lopez Unveils "Be Extraordinary" Billboard For Boys and Girls Clubs in New York City on June 10, 2010 - Times Square - New York City, NY, USA © Donna Ward / PR Photos

Puerto-Rican diva pop star and actress Jennifer Lopez is not out of the "Idol" judge running yet, says producer Nigel Lythgoe. 

The speculation on who will be the next "American Idol" judge is at a zenith with the rumor that Shania Twain may take the slot intended for Lopez, per past press leaks.

Nigel Lythgoe says that's bunk.

"Hello? These people don't know Jennifer Lopez," Lythgoe told "Extra's" Terri Seymour at the finale of Lythgoe's other show, "So You Think You Can Dance." "She's a wonderful woman," he said. "I've never seen her be a diva in her life!"

Lythgoe also put to rest the rumor that former judge Paula Abdul might return. "I would LOVE Paula to come back," Lythgoe said. "But Paula is under contract to another company so I don't think that she enters the frame on this occasion."

As for Aerosmith frontman Steven Tyler's "Idol" participation, Tyler himself answered that question when asked by the paparazzi, "I dunno. Is that the rumor you've heard? They haven't called me yet. They gotta lay out the bread for me!"

Lythgoe, however, is determined to keep it at three judges, with minimal drama. "As far as I'm concerned, I would like the attention to go on the kids, because it's about the talent that comes on this show and sings."

For more with Nigel and the latest “American Idol” news tune-in to “Extra” tonight.