Mariah Carey and Paul McCartney Possible 'Idol' Guests

Mariah is named to be among the guest talent courted for the new season of “American Idol,” which kicks off its sixth season on January 16, 2007.

The show, which crowns winners based on cingular cell phone fan votes, has been a television favorite for the past 5 years.

The move to get Mariah makes a lot of sense, seeing that “Idol” judge Randy Jackson happens to be Mimi’s longtime friend and collaborator. He says they have "tossed it around a bit" but have yet to confirm her appearance.

Meanwhile, ex-Beatle Paul McCartney is also rumored to be on the season 6 guest list, which hopes to live up to its previous season of professional talent – capped by a surprise appearance from Prince during the season finale.

"Prince blew the doors off. He is one of the quintessential ones of our time," Jackson told the Associated Press.

Cecile Frot-Coutaz, who oversees "American Idol" as chief executive officer of producer FremantleMedia North America Inc., added: "The fact we can get Prince is a real tribute to the show. ... (now) who knows who we can get?"

Mariah and Paul would surely be an impressive start.