Idol Chatter & Voice Views

American Idol released a new cast photo today and has announced dates for its Season 12 premiere.

Ryan Seacrest has the position of danger in the photo, standing between the supposedly feuding Mariah Carey and Nicki Minaj.

But neither looks very dangerous in the photo, do they?

As for the Season 12 premiere — and the debut of Nicki, Mariah and Keith Urban — circle Wednesday, Jan. 16 (8 to 10 p.m.) on your calendar.

Idol will also air a one-hour audition episode the following night.

And don’t forget — the show is still inviting video auditions.

A singer meeting the show’s age requirements — 15 to 28 as of June 5, 2012 — just needs to submit a video singing a song a cappella by Nov. 4.

Head here for more details.