Like a cockroach in a nuclear war, American Idol judge Randy Jackson managed to survive the mass exodus of judges over the past 12 years. Although it was originally thought the previous season of the hit FOX talent competition would be the veteran judge's last, he will assume his seat at the table yet again. According to FOX reports, Jackson's surprise return came after negotiations with singer Enrique Iglesias stalled. When one door closes, another opens -- and Jackson apparently walked right through it. Initially, Jackson was expected to transition into the role of a celebrity mentor like music exec Jimmy Iovine. However, Idol's heads had bigger plans for the veteran judge with Iglesias out of the picture. One source tells FOX that Iglesias was playing hardball commanding an eight-figure salary. Having given the "I Like It" singer the no-can-do, negotiations with Nicki Minaj and Keith Urban are still underway. Meanwhile, Mariah Carey is a sure thing, signing on for an incredible $18 million salary. Ironically, Jackson played a big role in getting the "Fantasy" singer, who he co-manages, to come aboard. The only other originals on Idol include host Ryan Seacrest and executive producer Nigel Lythgoe.