If there’s any word to describe what’s going on behind the scenes of American Idol right now, annihilation comes to mind. The ever popular talent competition hasn’t been as popular lately, which has led to the latest news – that Idol will be firing, pardon, replacing, all four of its judges and an executive producer next season.

The big shots over at Fox apparently hoped that the explosive combination of Nicki Minaj and Mariah Carey would get the show back on its feet, but instead, it seems to have paralysed it completely, with ratings at an all time low. The Wrap reported the show’s plans to start from scratch next season – without even bringing back fan favorite Jennifer Lopez, as some previous reports speculated. "All four are gone," the insider told The Wrap. "They feel they've lost their core audience and they want it back."

The core audience in question? Young people. The 16-24 demographic, who haven’t exactly been on the edge of their seats for this season of Idol. In a desperate bid to bring them back, Fox execs will also bring major changes to the format of the show. No more themed tribute nights with music from your aunt’s vintage record collection. The show’s look will also undergo a complete overhaul. 

Nicki Minaj, American Idol PartyMariah Carey, American Idol Party
No more divas and no more diva salaries, says Fox.

One thing that will remain the same is the show’s traditional audition format – probably because that’s where the cream of the crop – the strangest and most entertaining characters – shine. Well, we’ll be sorry to see Mariah Carey and Nicki Minaj go, but not as much as we’re looking forward to American Idol’s makeover.