We knew this already, so it’s not exactly a bulletin. But now, it’s official, as FOX releases official word that Keith Urban, Harry Connick Jr. and Jennifer Lopez will return to the American Idol judges table.
It would have been really weird for Ryan Seacrest to be present at last week’s American Idol 14 auditions in Minneapolis, if he weren’t returning, too, right? So, it goes without saying that he’s coming back to host.
Can you believe it? It’s not even the end of June and we know who will return to the judges panel. That’s got to be a first since…Season 7 or 8? Even the year Jennifer and Steven Tyler returned to the judges panel for Season 11, there was some drama. Jlo didn’t sign her contract until August.
Hm. No word on whether Randy Jackson will return in the mentor role. We can dream, can’t we (that he won’t, that is).
Here’s the official announcement.
Jennifer Lopez, Keith Urban and Harry Connick, Jr. will return as judges and Ryan Seacrest will host AMERICAN IDOL for its 14th season.
“Jennifer, Keith, Harry and Ryan are the very best in the business at what they do, and I’m thrilled that they are returning to AMERICAN IDOL for another season. Each brings unique qualities and expertise to the team, but they all share the same passion for helping undiscovered singers achieve the American dream,” said David Hill, Senior Executive Vice President, 21st Century Fox.
Commented Trish Kinane, President, Entertainment, FremantleMedia North America and Executive Producer, AMERICAN IDOL, “I am delighted that our dream team of Jennifer, Keith and Harry are back for AMERICAN IDOL XIV. Their experience, humor and passion for new talent has made them one of IDOL’s strongest-ever judging panels, and coupled with the expertise and charisma of Ryan Seacrest, we are ready to get out there to find the best talent in America.”
“I am thrilled our consummate host, Mr. Ryan Seacrest, is returning for Season 14, together with Jennifer, Harry and Keith,” said AMERICAN IDOL creator and executive producer Simon Fuller. “Their interaction, warmth and experience made them an absolute joy to watch. I can’t wait to see their evolution together continue next season.”
AMERICAN IDOL XIV auditions continue in New Orleans, LA (Wednesday, June 25); Uniondale, NY; (Wednesday, July 23); Nashville, TN; (Wednesday, July 30); and San Francisco, CA; (Monday, Sept. 29). Additonally, the AMERICAN IDOL XIV team revs up its bicoastal bus tour. Kicking off on Wednesday, July 9 both in Portland, ME, and Portland, OR, the AMERICAN IDOL XIV Bus Tour will offer dreamers and hopefuls a chance to change their lives forever and begin their own AMERICAN IDOL journey. Hopefuls can also submit auditions online through social media using #TheNextIdol. Find out all you need to know HERE.
