Jennifer Lopez Also Departing 'American Idol'

On the heels of Steven Tyler's announcement that he will not be returning as a judge on FOX's American Idol, Jennifer Lopez confirmed Friday that she, too, will be leaving the show after two years. “The time has come for me to get back to the other things that I do," Lopez told On Air with Ryan Seacrest, adding: "We had an amazing run."

Lopez, who had hinted at the news on the NBC's Today a day earlier, said the decision was not easy, but that she needed to free up time to focus on other aspects of her career. “It’s been a long process…I’ve really been torn….Something has to give," she said. Lopez did leave open the possibility of a returning to the show as a mentor, however.

No announcement has been made as to who will fill the two seats vacated by Tyler and Lopez, but past contestants Kelly Clarkson and Adam Lambert are among the names being floated, according to Entertainment Weekly. Also, no word yet on whether Randy Jackson, the third and only surviving original Idol judge, will hang on for a 12th season.

Read more American Idol news here:

Steven Tyler Leaves ‘American Idol’ To Focus On Aerosmith

American Idol: Is Ryan Seacrest Out After This Season?

Uinterview | News: VIDEO: Steven Tyler Butchers National Anthem

VIDEO: Mick Jagger Plays Steven Tyler On 'Saturday Night Live'

'American Idol' Top 2 Picks Jessica Sanchez, Phillip Phillips

Britney Spears, Demi Lovato Will Judge 'The X Factor'

RECAP: Jennifer Lopez Denies Nipple Action On 'Idol'

Uinterview | News: 'Idol' Winner Phillip Phillips To Undergo Surgery

RECAP: Jim Carrey's Daughter Auditions For 'American Idol'