Jennifer Lopez - The Real Reason Star Left American Idol

The departures of "American Idol" judges Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler within 24 hours of each other were not a coincidence.

Jennifer Lopez says it was her choice to leave "American Idol," but the singer was actually let go by Fox executives when she asked for a $2 million raise. Fox also opted not to pick up Steven Tyler's option. 

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According to The Wrap, an insider told them exclusively that J. Lo's salary went from $12 million in her first season to $15 million in her second. When she asked for another $2 million, the network surprised her by not making a counteroffer. 

Tyler announced his departure saying he had decided to devote his energies to his first love, his rock band Aerosmith. Lopez confirmed with host Ryan Seacrest on his radio show that she wanted to focus on other aspects of her career and her children. Lopez is set to go on tour with Enrique Iglesias next month. Lopez also suggested that Tyler's departure confirmed her exit.

"We had magic," Lopez said of Tyler to ABC's Amy Robach on Sunday. "I don't know, with him gone, it might be a different formula," she said, according to The Daily News.

The insider also added that Fox executives Peter Rice and Kevin Reilly want to revamp the show, and that Rice has told colleagues he wants an "Idol 2.0," of which host Ryan Seacrest would be the only essential ingredient.

A Fox spokeswoman declined to comment.

"Idol" lost its top spot in the ratings to NBC's "Sunday Night Football" last season after eight years of dominance. In their two seasons, Tyler and Lopez helped boost re-interest in the show based on viewership ratings.

There is wide speculation based on several reports that the remaining "Idol" judge, Randy Jackson, may possibly depart after judging on all 11 seasons of the former number one show as part of a dramatic overhaul.

Randy Jackson reacted to the news of his co-judges departures by telling Gossip Cop, "Steven and Jennifer are truly two of the most talented and consummate professionals I've worked with. I was friends with them before we hopped on this crazy journey together and I have no doubt our friendships will continue long after. I will love them for life."

Many music stars are being considered to replace Lopez and Tyler, including Mariah Carey -- who Randy has managed throughout her career and Simon Cowell had sought for "X Factor", as well as Katy Perry, Adam Lambert and Will.i.Am.

"American Idol" is considered the most watched TV series from 2005 to 2011, according to Nielsen ratings. It is the only program to have been number one for seven consecutive seasons, making it one of the most successful shows in television history.