Aretha Franklin Wants to Be an 'American Idol' Judge

With Steven Tyler and Jennifer Lopez having announced their departures from "American Idol" late last week, producers may want to pick up the phone and call Aretha Franklin.

The Queen of Soul is offering her services to the Fox show, telling CNN in an email that she's interested in being a judge. CNN also reports that Aretha would like Patti LaBelle to join her on "Idol," too.

Aretha should know that that she may not be able to command J-Lo-type money as judge. Sources tell The Hollywood Reporter that the show is considering slashing its budget and staff, though another source says such talk is "inaccurate."

Lopez reportedly earned at least 15 million dollars for her most recent season on "American Idol."