Jennifer Lopez and Casper Smart

Jennifer Lopez and Casper Smart

Jennifer Lopez's boyfriend has confirmed she is returning to 'American Idol'.

Casper Smart, who has been dating the 'Dance Again' hitmaker for almost two years, accidentally let the cat out of the bag while promoting his own new show 'A Step Away' on Friday (16.08.13), as he thought an official announcement had already been made.

Asked if his girlfriend, who is rumoured to have signed a $15 million contact with FOX, is returning to the judging panel for the 13th season, the former backup dancer, 25, told E! News: "Yes."

It's believed the star approached the network about a return as she wants to be based in Los Angeles so she can have a settled life with her five-year-old twins, Max and Emme, as they prepare to go to start school.

A source added: "Returning to 'American Idol' makes sense for Jennifer this season, as the show's schedule will allow her to focus on new film and TV projects" at the same time. And, of course, her twins are starting school this year and she will have time for her family."

The 44-year-old singer - who appeared on two other seasons of the show in 2010 and 2011 - was reportedly paid $20 million for her second season and $12 million for her first season on the judging panel.

Country music star Keith Urban is also returning to the show while a third member of the judging panel has yet to be revealed.

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