Minaj feared being too famous after 'American Idol'

Singer Nicki Minaj says she was afraid that joining "American Idol" as a judge would make her too famous.

The 30-year-old singer even discussed the issue with her family and mentors before signing the deal with "American Idol" bosses.

"(Before joining) I had a lot of talks with people - my family, my best friends, my label, (mentor) Lil Wayne, management and then the producers," hollywoodreporter.com quoted Minaj as saying.

"(There is) a judgmental culture in hip-hop. Sometimes you are afraid of being too famous because it's almost, like, is that even cool? Being that accessible, someone you see on TV every week? I never pictured myself as that type of person. I'm still surprised that I decided to do it," she added.

Minaj will be seen alongside singer Mariah Carey, Keith Urban and Randy Jackson when season 12 kicks off on January 16.