{blackbabes} Report: American Idol's Plan to Replace Mariah Carey With Ex-Judge Jennifer Lopez Derailed

In the wake of continually decreasing ratings, American Idol's Powers That Be reportedly began plotting the return of former fan-fave judge Jennifer Lopez, with just weeks left in Season 12. That Hail Mary pass, however, was quickly derailed.

According to The Hollywood Reporter, Idol EPs and Fox execs had been looking to shake things up (and potentially give viewership a boost) by replacing resident diva Mariah Carey with Lopez. But the plan is said to have hit a major snag when, upon learning of the behind-the-scenes scheme, Carey's team "responded with a threat of litigation."

While Fox, production company Fremantle NorthAmerica and Carey's reps all declined to comment on THR's story, Idol boss Nigel Lythgoe told the trade, "I have not been included in any conversation regarding replacing Mariah with Jen this season."

Lopez — who departed the series in Season 11 after two years at the judges' table – may still return to Idol this season, with producers in talks with the star to appear in the upcoming May finale.