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Pump your brakes. Despite earlier reports, it seems that Nicki Minaj is not a lock to be a new judge on American Idol just yet. TMZ reports that besides the Queens rapper not being confirmed to be a judge, despite being the top candidate,  official new judge Mariah Carey is livid because she was under the impression that she would be the reality talent show’s only female judge.

Sources connected with “Idol” tell TMZ … Mariah was led to believe she would be the only woman on the judge’s panel. Choosing Nicki would not only crush that expectation, it would add insult to injury because Nicki (29) is a lot younger than Mariah (42).

As for the composition of the judge’s panel, we’re told by no means is it a done deal. There are 2 scenarios being played out. First, it’s unclear if Randy Jackson will come back as a judge or a mentor. If he leaves the judge’s panel, there will be another spot to fill.

The second scenario … we’re told some of the honchos believe it’s a mistake to have 2 women and a man on the panel, and a 4th male judge would be necessary.

As for who’s still in the running, we’re told Brad Paisley, Keith Urban and Enrique Iglesias are leading the pack.

TMZ also brought up a valid point that Middle America might not tune in to an all Black judging panel if it ends up being Minaj, Carey and Randy Jackson. Another point that may be holding up Minaj signing on the dotted line is the fact that she has a pricey endorsement deal with Pepsi while American Idol has one with rival Coca-Cola.

Just like everything in this world, this will surely all come down to the money.

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Photo: NBC