Angie Martinez has left “American Idol” less than a week after it was announced she would be a judge on the upcoming second season of the Fox television talent show. Martinez, who is an Elektra recording artist and a host on R&B/hip-hop station WQHT (Hot 97) New York, had been tapped to be the show’s fourth judge for the show’s second season, alongside returning “American Idol” judges Simon Cowell, Paula Abdul, and Randy Jackson. A Fox spokesperson tells Billboard.com that Martinez will not be replaced for the new season, which is set to premiere in January.
In a statement, Martinez said, “Being asked to join ‘American Idol’ as their newest panelist was an honor. However, after judging the first few auditions, I’ve decided to leave the show because it became too uncomfortable for me to tell someone else to give up on their dream, especially when I realized that many of them have supported my musical career. I thank everyone at Fox for the opportunity and wish every contestant the best of luck.”
“American Idol” contestant auditions are currently being held in select U.S. cities and will continue through November. Martinez had been present at auditions in Detroit and New York. The Fox spokesperson says it has yet to be determined if the network will air any of Martinez’s participation on the show.
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