At first blush, the decision at Fox to bring back the entire "American Idol" judging panel for Season 14 seems strange, perhaps out of touch.
The long-running singing competition series sustained record-low ratings last season. Even so, when the show kicks off the new season on Jan. 7. the judges from last season -- Jennifer Lopez, Keith Urban and Harry Connick, Jr. -- will be back. It's the first time since season 11 that the judges have remained the same for consecutive seasons.
In addition to the same table of judges, Ryan Seacrest returns as the show's host.
"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, senior executive vice president of 21st Century Fox. said. "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 ratings for "Idol" fell 28 percent among adults in the 18-49 age demographic last season. So, why not change the composition of the judges panel in an attempt to jump-start the low rating? Some insiders believe that the ratings slump was not caused by the makeup of the judges panel. They lay the reason for the dip on the show's aging format and the strong competition from shows such as NBC's "The Voice."
Only time will tell if keeping the "Idol" judging panel intact from Season 13 was the right call, and it really won't take much time to the compare ratings once the new season is launched.
