With the January 16th premiere of American Idol season 12 drawing ever-nearer, the show’s cast are beginning to do the media rounds.

Their latest stop? The cover of ‘The Hollywood Reporter’.

Battling beauties Mariah Carey and Nicki Minaj are all-smiles in the shots, which also feature fellow judges Randy Jackson and Keith Urban, as well as long-serving host Ryan Seacrest.

And while it’s clear that the stylists and photoshoppers have done a stellar job with the shoot, it’s the producers who deserve most kudos. For, they’ve willfully and skillfully conjured up ample buzz on the back of Carey and Minaj’s still-raging “feud” – ensuring that this season is a must-see.

We know we’ll be tuning in. Will you?

Your thoughts?