‘Idol’ judge Tyler charmed by ‘sexy beast’ J-Lo

This image provided by FOX-TV shows the two American Idol finalists with the judges. From left: Jennifer Lopez, Phillip Phillips, Jessica Sanchez, Steven Tyler and Randy Jackson. AP

NEW YORK—Steven Tyler is quiet on whether he or Jennifer Lopez will return to the judging panel on “American Idol” next year, but the rocker says he has loved the experience of sitting next to her.

“She’s a sexy beast,” Tyler said in a phone interview Monday.

He added: “I’m always flirting with her. It’s not a bad thing. It’s really a good thing. The best part of it all is that we been able to pick some good talent. Just look at this year.”

Jessica Sanchez and Phillip Phillips are the final two contestants. The winner will be crowned Wednesday night (Thursday morning Manila time). If the 16-year old Sanchez wins, she’ll be first girl to win the competition since Jordin Sparks took home the crown five years ago.

Tyler gives her the edge: “She sings so good you can’t deny, but America votes for it, so we’ll see.”

The 64-year old rocker said he was always comfortable judging the talent competition.

When he took the job in 2010, it was rumored his band Aerosmith, which has had its share of friction over the years, would not survive. But this summer, Aerosmith is touring and is set to release its first studio album in 10 years.

Tyler said his “Idol” gig never was a problem for the band.

“There was no working through it. I took a job. I took a day job (and) for whatever reason, it was very successful,” he said.

Tyler attributes his “Idol’ success to the chemistry among the judges and host Ryan Seacrest.

“The ride has been nothing but good. I think people at home see that realness. I didn’t think it would transcend like that, and God bless that it did.”