Rumors are flying in the wake of the vacancies on the American Idol judges panel, and one that’s made the rounds this week is that country star Brad Paisley is being “seriously consider[ed]” for the part.

Deadline.com was the first to report yesterday that they “hear” FOX is considering Paisley. And since many former Idol competitors–Carrie Underwood, Kellie Pickler, Scotty McCreery, and Lauren Alaina, to name a few–have gone on to become successful country artists, it would seem to make perfect sense.

We’re not sure if he could quite pull of the harsh Simon-esque manner, or the candid Steven Tyler let-down, but Paisley certainly has the sense of humor for it:

Tomorrow in Calgary, I will attempt to perform my entire set list in perfect Canadian. Thanks RosettaStone! — Brad Paisley (@BradPaisley) July 13, 2012

Kelly Clarkson sounded off on who her choice for the next Idol judge would be, although in an exclusive interview with WSOC in Charlotte, Carrie Underwood says of being a judge, “I would cry.” Listen to the interview here.

Kevin Costner seems to be on the same page as Carrie.  Not that he would cry, but just that he couldn’t be that critical. “When I audition actors [for movies] when I direct, I swear to God, I want them all to get the part. I want people to succeed,” he explained in a recent interview. To hear more of Costner’s comments on the singing competition show, check out the full interview Costner did with US99.5 in Chicago.

Most recently, judges Steven Tyler and Jennifer Lopez have separated from the show.  Mariah Carey has been confirmed to fill the spot and joins Randy Jackson on the panel. A third judge for Season 12 has not yet been selected.  Get current updates at CBS Local Los Angeles.

- Nanci Haskin/99.5 WYCD