American Idol's producers have chimed in about the feud between new judges Mariah Carey and Nicki Minaj, which recently hit a new level when Carey publicly claimed Minaj has threatened to kill her (a claim Minaj denies) and she has hired extra security as a result.

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However, the statement doesn't clarify much about the feud -- which some, including newly departed Idol judge Steven Tyler, believe to be a publicity stunt.

"This is one of the best, most passionate, dynamic and invested judging panels we've ever had.  We love and support all of the judges and the fantastic work they are doing, and we can't imagine a better group to find the next American Idol," the producers said in a statement released late Friday evening.

"Despite all the accusations and media speculation --  much of which is inaccurate -- production is going extremely well today and the judges are focused on finding the best talent here in Baton Rouge."

On Wednesday, American Idol producer Nigel Lythgoe had denied earlier reports that Minaj had threatened to kill Carey while the judges were conducting auditions in Charlotte, NC on Tuesday.

"The statement [that Nicki made a death threat] is absolute rubbish. It's absolutely not true in any way, shape or form," Lythgoe told TMZ at the time, insisting the claim was false information created by members of Carey's entourage who were trying to stir up drama.

However, Carey insisted the death threat reports were true during an off-air interview with The View host Barbara Walters on Thursday.

"Just before we went on the air, I called Mariah... she said that what you heard was troublesome but that's not what really worried her. She said when Nicki walked off the set, multiple people heard Nicki say, 'If I had a gun I'd shoot the bitch.'  And she said there were staff members that heard it -- producers, hairdressers, other people," Walters said during Thursday's The View broadcast.

According to Walters, Carey then claimed to be uncomfortable with the situation and have hired additional security.

"She said she's very concerned, she is with her twins.  She doesn't feel that anything would happen, but 'Nicki is unpredictable,' and Mariah says she can't take a chance and she has hired extra security," Walters said.

"At this point, Mariah said she doesn't feel comfortable emotionally but she will continue with the show because she loves the show and she loves mentoring the contestants."

Afterward, Minaj took to Twitter and accused Carey of making up the threat and "milking" it.

"Hey yAll. Lets just say Nicki said smthn about a gun. ppl will believe it cuz she's a black rapper. Lmao. I'll then hit up Barbara n milk it," Minaj wrote.

"Ironically no camera or mic heard the gun comment tho. Lol @ the struggle. Not even the producers believed u. Say no to violence barbz."

In addition, Minaj also blasted Walters for not seeking out her side of the story.

"Barbara Walters didn't reach out from our team barbz. I guess we're too dangerous. Don't shake if u don't wannA get shook!!!!" she tweeted.
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