'American Idol' Judges and Host Will Be Back for Another Season
by EG
The revived American Idol will continue to look the same for a fifth season. Judges Katy Perry, Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan and host Ryan Seacrest have all agreed to come back for at least one more season, preserving the line up that's been in place since the series moved from Fox to ABC. Read on for details.
American Idol is keeping the band together for its fifth season on ABC.
Judges Katy Perry, Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan and host Ryan Seacrest have all inked new deals to remain with the singing competition in 2022 — which will mark the show’s 20th season overall, the first 15 on Fox. Their returns are locked in as Idol is set to open up virtual auditions to would-be contestants across the country on Aug. 6.
“Luke, Katy, Lionel and Ryan are music and industry icons that have become synonymous with Idol on ABC,” said Rob Mills, executive vp unscripted and alternative entertainment at Walt Disney Television. “Their star power is unmatched, and their support is a gift to our contestants that have deeply benefited from their wisdom over the past four seasons — and they’re ready to do it again. As we begin a momentous season, I think it’s safe to say this dream team has officially cemented their legacy on Idol.”
ABC renewed American Idol for the 2021-22 season in May, but as has been the case for much of the show’s run at the network, did so without securing deals with its judges and host. The announcement of their return just as the gears begin to turn on the coming season also follows a familiar pattern.
“American Idol is still the original music show that genuinely creates superstars and continues to evolve to allow true artists to succeed in this unique business,” said executive producer and showrunner Megan Wolflick. “The chemistry and passion Katy, Luke, Lionel and Ryan bring is second to none. We couldn’t be more ecstatic that they are returning for this iconic 20th season in search of the freshest new talent that this nation has to offer.”
Get the rest of the story at The Hollywood Reporter.