Idol Chatter & Voice Views

Once again, American Idol has made judging changes heading into the new season.

Gone are Nicki Minaj, Mariah Carey and Randy Jackson.

New to the panel is Harry Connick Jr. Returning to the panel are Keith Urban and Jennifer Lopez, the latter after a one-year absence.

The American Idol judging panel for Season 13 — Keith Urban, Jennifer Lopez and Harry Connick Jr.

So I wanted to find out what American Idol fans thought about the changes. And what better place than the York Fair, where two former Idol contestants — Kristy Lee Cook and Lauren Alaina — were performing this week.

Since both were country concerts, I wasn’t surprised that most folks were thrilled Keith would be returning for Season 13.

The reaction to J-Lo’s return was mixed, though most fans said they’re also glad that Nicki’s days on Idol are over.

And most of the fans I talked to plan to watch Idol again in Season 13, despite the show’s decline in ratings this year.

Jennifer Lopez waves to the crowd during the Season 11 American Idol finale. (FOX Photo)

Collin Gurgul, 17, East Berlin: I’m not so sure about it. J-Lo wasn’t that great the first time around and Harry Connick Jr. was a last-minute choice. I do like Keith Urban.

Carissa Gurgul, 15, East Berlin: The first set of judges was the best. They worked well together.

Danielle Gray, 16, Dallastown: I’ll miss Randy, but I’ll keep watching. I’m glad they brought J-Lo back. She’s a good judge.

Deb Baugher, York: It should be 100 percent better. Some of the judges needed to go home. I love Keith Urban, and I’m glad to see J-Lo back.

Natalie Montero, 18, Dover: I think it will be better. I’m glad J-Lo is back and I loved Keith urban last year.

Sandy Reinhard, New Tripoli: I love Keith Urban. I’n not that happy that J-Lo is back. I don’t like the way she judged the first time. I miss Simon. They need someone who tells the truth. Harry Connick? I think he should be really good.

Courtney Krepps, 16, Hanover: I’m glad they got rid of Nicki. And I like how there will be three judges. Now there won’t be so many opinions.

Bev Sterner, York: I think it will be better now that J-Lo’s back. I just like listening to her.

Linda Shelton, York: I like Keith Urban. He’s fair. Harry Connick should be good. And I’m glad J-Lo is back.

Mikaela Mummert, 17, Dover: I think they will be really good this year. I’m a really big fan of Keith Urban, and I’m glad J-Lo is coming back.

For the Idol Chatter take on the judging situation, head here.