There’s a reason why Haute 100 New York member Jennifer Lopez was chosen for the coveted seat on American Idol’s judging panel – she’s gorgeous, charming, has the talent to back up her words, and she works hard. So maybe that’s the reason the star is also getting a hefty raise to stay on the show to over $20 million – that’s over $8 million more than she was paid for her debut season.

The pay increase is a huge nod to J. Lo’s popularity on the hit show and the work is probably welcomes as the singer seems to have been working through her recent divorce from Marc Anthony. Despite what some might think, though, Lopez has been proceeding to work as usual and stated of the divorce process she’s currently going through, ”I will always respect Marc as a singer and performer. We actually work great together, and he was always very supportive. Together we could make magic — and we did. He will always be in our lives. He will always hold a special place in my heart as the father of my children.”

Our Haute 100 list details the accomplishments of the most influential people in each of our markets. To see the entire Haute 100 New York list, click here.