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EXCLUSIVE!

American Idol: Y'all Ready for...Paula Deen?!

Tue., Feb. 16, 2010 1:15 PM PST by Marc Malkin

American Idol Judges, Simon Cowell, Ellen DeGeneres, Kara DioGuardi, Randy Jackson, Paula Deen

Michael Becker/FOX; AP Photo/J. Pat Carter

American Idol may be cooking something up with Paula Deen.

A source tells me the Food Network star is in discussions to appear on the singing competition show.

"They started talking about two weeks ago," the source says.

As much as we love us some Deen in all her buttery goodness...

It's probably safe to assume that she is not a candidate to replace Simon Cowell.

But a possible stint as a guest judge? Sure.

If Ellen DeGeneres is the resident voice of the fans, then Deen would likely fall into fan-meets-mom category. With her Southern charm—and honky-tonk soundbites—we imagine contestants wouldn't have a hard time swallowing even the worst reviews served up by the lovable white-haired 63-year-old grandmother.

As for her music experience, Deen has none—at least nothing that we're aware of—but that didn't stop DeGeneres from landing a permanent seat at the judges' table.

Reps for Deen and Idol did not immediately comment.

Deen has not only written a slew of books, but she's the host of three different Food Network shows. She's currently developing a View-like talk show for Telepictures, the multimedia giant behind The Ellen DeGeneres Show.

So y'all think Deen should guest judge? Leave your comments below.

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While American Idol is making music in Hollywood, the fabulous fashionistas are in NYC doing the Fashion Week thing. Check them out in our Runway Rundown photo gallery.