Lambert to American Idol as Judge?

THE RETURN OF AN IDOL? Is American Idol runner-up Adam Lambert under consideration for next year’s judges’ panel on the hit Fox show’s 12th season? That’s what news sources are saying, indicating Lambert has been in talks with producers for over a month. An insider told E!: "He personifies the show, and will be a popular choice. He knows what it's like to be on the receiving end of the judges' comments, he has a human touch, and they know they can't go wrong if they bring him on. He would be able to bring a unique perspective to the show. People love him." The current incumbents, Randy Jackson, Steven Tyler and Jennifer Lopez, have received criticism for their “kinder, gentler” approach in judging contestants compared to the acerbic Simon Cowell. None of the three has yet signed on for the new season. Lambert lost on the show to Kris Allen in 2009, but has emerged a bigger star, with his latest album, Trespassing, hitting #1 on the album sales chart in May. (7/9p)