News Mariah Carey Joins American Idol: See Her Transformation By Sharon Clott Kanter Published on July 23, 2012 Pin Share Tweet Email Photo: Seth Poppel/Yearbook Archives; Kevin Mazur/WireImage Mariah Carey is taking a seat at the American Idol judges' table! The 42-year-old powerhouse—we'll never forget "Honey" and "Always Be My Baby"—will make her debut when season 12 starts taping this fall, Entertainment Weekly confirmed. So, before you dig up your Mariah Carey Greatest Hits double album (what, not everyone bought that?), check out the singer's amazing transformation, from curly-haired high schooler to record-setting songbird. MORE:• Mariah's HSN Line• American Idol Stars Transform• Mariah's Closet Is Top Pinned Picture Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! Tell us why! Other Submit