Oddsmaker: Steven Tyler best bet for next ‘American Idol’ judge

By Amanda Finnegan

Thursday, Aug. 5, 2010 | 5:46 p.m.

Aerosmith lead singer Steven Tyler is the best bet for a replacement for Simon Cowell on the "American Idol" judging panel — at least according to Wynn Las Vegas oddsmaker Johnny Avello.

Avello, who often releases odds for events like the Academy Awards and reality show finals, released his list of odds for "American Idol" judges Thursday.

Considering Tyler announced his "American Idol" judgeship in Las Vegas last weekend, Tyler seems to be a sure thing.

"New album, and um, probably going to be a judge on American Idol. I'm doing it! What do you think? I'm doing it!" Tyler said of his post-tour plans at Studio 54 last Saturday.

After Tyler, Avello has current "Idol" judge Randy Jackson at 5-to-2 and dancer-turned-actress-turned-singer Jennifer Lopez at 3-to-1. Both Jackson and Lopez have been top contenders in the "Idol" rumor mill.

Don't try to actually walk into a Las Vegas casino and put money down on these odds, though. Betting on non-sporting events such as the Oscars, reality shows and political contests is against the law in Nevada.

Here is Avello's list of odds on the next judge for "American Idol": • Steven Tyler — 7 to 5

• Randy Jackson — 5 to 2

• Jennifer Lopez — 3 to 1

• Kara Dioguardi — 15 to 1

• Jessica Simpson --18 to 1

• Harry Connick Jr. — 20 to 1

• Paula Abdul — 22 to 1

• David Foster — 25 to 1

• Courtney Love — 30 to 1

• Sean "Diddy" Combs — 35 to 1

• Usher — 45 to 1

• Bret Michaels — 50 to 1

• Jamie Foxx — 60 to 1

• Elton John — 65 to 1

• Nigel Lythgoe — 75 to 1

• Chris Isaak — 85 to 1

• Victor Willis — 100 to 1

• Queen Latifah — 125 to 1

• Sharon Osbourne — 175 to 1

• Madonna — 250 to 1

• Justin Timberlake — 500 to 1

• Howard Stern — 1000 to 1