American Idol is coming back, and so are the judges.
FOX reported that judges Keith Urban, Jennifer Lopez, Harry Connick Jr. and host Ryan Seacrest will return for the 14th season of FOX's "American Idol." The network unveiled the news by announcing the audition dates for next 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," David Hill, 21st Century Fox senior exec vice president, said in a statement. "Each brings unique qualities and expertise to the team, but they all share the same passion for helping undiscovered singers achieve the American dream."
The return of Lopez, Connick and Urban was expected, according to The Hollywood Reporter. They reportedly signed a new deal with the show several weeks ago. Seacrest, who is the only member of the original "American Idol" team, has been negotiating a deal to return. He recently signed a two-year deal that will keep him on the show through Season 15.
"I am thrilled our consummate host, Mr. Ryan Seacrest, is returning for Season 14, together with Jennifer, Harry and Keith," Simon Fuller, creator and executive producer, said. "Their interaction, warmth and experience made them an absolute joy to watch. I can't wait to see their evolution together continue next season."
Executive producer Trish Kinane added that the judges' "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."
The singing competition will hit 15 cities for auditions including Portland, Oreg., Columbus, Ohio, Kansas City, Mo., Richmond, Va., Albuquerque, N.M. and more. The competition will begin June 18 in Minneapolis.
Despite the good news of being renewed for another season, ratings for the FOX show have dropped, making this year's season finale the lowest-rated ending episode ever, according to The Hollywood Reporter. For season 14, the show will slim down the number of episodes aired per season.
"I think you'll see it on a two-night format, at least initially during the audition phase," Fuller said, according to E! News. "It's quite likely...we'll end up being a two-hour show on one night for most of its run."
Are you glad to see all three judges back for another season?
