Mariah Carey On Nicki Minaj Feud: ‘American Idol’ Felt Like “An Unsafe Work Environment”

Sam Lansky | January 7, 2013 11:29 am

It feels like just yesterday that Mariah Carey and Nicki Minaj were feuding on American Idol, doesn’t it? Oh, how time flies when you’re having fun, or even not. And now the premiere is just around the corner — with the next season of Idol set to premiere January 16 on FOX — and accordingly, the judges are in full promo mode talking about the important stuff: Finding the next generation of America’s talent.

Just kidding! They’re talking about their petty in-fighting and drama. Divas are the best.

Most recently, Carey sat down for an intimate interview with Barbara Walters, where she discussed her feud with Minaj and why she felt it necessary to hire additional security — it was for the children. “It felt like an unsafe work environment. Anytime anybody’s reeling threats at somebody, you know, it’s not appropriate. I’m a professional — I’m not used to that type of environment,” she said. “[Hiring more security] was the appropriate thing to do. Sitting there on the road with two babies, I’m not going to take any chances.”

Still, Carey remembers what’s really important — which is, apparently, not that feud. “For all the drama, I hope it helps the show,” she said. “I think it’s a classic, classy show and it didn’t need this. For me, ultimately, this is about the kids, the contestants. I’ve been blessed to live my dream more than half my life. I want to help give that back to someone else.”

Stirring stuff! There is a hero if you look inside your heart. Watch Carey’s interview up top.