How much is Mariah's rumored 'Idol' payday?

By Tomika Anderson Special to CNN - The speculation's underway on just how much Mariah Carey's making as a new "American Idol" judge, and reports suggest that she might've hit the jackpot.

People magazine reports that the superstar singer, who announced Monday that she'll sit at the judges' table for "Idol's" next season, has reportedly netted an estimated $18 million for the gig.

"Her deal is rumored to be just under $18 million for one year with an option to renew," an inside source said to be familiar with Carey's negotiations told People.

If this is true, it means Mrs. Nick Cannon might have received the highest celebrity payout ever to appear as a judge on a show of this kind.

According to the Hollywood Reporter, Jennifer Lopez allegedly made close to $12 million on her first season of "Idol," while Christina Aguilera got a reported $10 million for the third season of "The Voice." New "X Factor" judge Britney Spears is said to have landed a $15 million windfall when she signed on to the "Idol" competitor's new season.

Rumors aside, one thing is for sure: Carey's excited to get started at her new job.

"As a singer, songwriter and producer, it's going to be fun and rewarding to help find new talent and give back to American Idol," Carey said in a statement on Monday.