Mariah Carey could soon help make it happen for wannabe singers…

The 42-year-old part-Venezuelan American singer is reportedly in serious talks to be a judge on American Idol next season.

“She’s in play,” a source tells People magazine about the Grammy-winning singer’s chances of taking a seat at the judges’ table on Fox’s hit reality music singing competition. “They are in serious talks.”

Carey’s hiring would be a major celebrity gain for the show, especially with the announcement that Steven Tyler will not be returning next season and Jennifer Lopez walking away from her Idol role to return to acting/performing.

Carey, who is currently at work on a new album, has had a hugely successful career in music and made-for-TV eccentric personality.

Her star power could be a godsend for Fox and the show’s ratings slump (down 25 percent from 2011).

Since the show began switching up the panel when Paula Abdul left in 2009, the only original judge on the panel is Randy Jackson, who has collaborated with Carey throughout her career.