Is Katy Perry plotting a very big deal to take over TV? Well, maybe not to take it over, but if a new report claiming Katy's about to sign a deal to be a judge on the upcoming American Idol reboot is true, then get ready for some BIG TV ratings, people!

We spotted Katy last night at the Wango Tango after-party and that smirk on her face seemed to signify the "Chained To they Rhythm" singer has something up her sleeve ...

We all know ABC is planning an AI reboot and the show's old host Ryan Seacrest -- even though he just took the co-hosting gig on Live With Kelly -- is slated to return. The show's producers were trying to get AI alum Kelly Clarkson to sign on as a judge, but when negotiations fell through and she joined The Voice, they had to get another big name on the show and Katy was the one they wanted, according to TMZ.

American Idol went off the air because it was over-budget -- the talent cost too much and the ratings didn't justify the $$$. This time around, producers are trying not to break the bank, but Perry and Seacrest will cost BIG bucks so the rest of the judges' panel will have to be a little .... D-list. Question is: will Katy and Ryan bring in the viewership necessary to keep the show alive and profitable? They just might!