ABC announced on Wednesday (Aug. 19) that the whole gang will be back for the next season of American Idol, with Luke Bryan, Katy Perry, Lionel Richie and host Ryan Seacrest returning next year.
The band is getting together again for the fourth season of the show on ABC — 19th overall — after the show was forced to switch things up and air remotely during the live stages of the competition as a result of the COVID-19 lockdown.
“American Idol has always been able to bring people together, entertain and inspire – and I am so proud of how this show continued to deliver joy and laughter into people’s homes during a time when we needed it the most,” said Karey Burke, president, ABC Entertainment in a statement. “There is no one who we feel more confident about leading us into a new season of high notes than Luke, Katy, Lionel and the incomparable Ryan Seacrest.”
Showrunner and executive producer Trish Kinane added, “Katy, Lionel and Luke are fun, astute and really know how to spot talent. Their chemistry is undeniable, and we are delighted that they, along with host Ryan Seacrest, are returning to find the next superstar and take American Idol to new heights next season.”
Producers have already been searching for talent via remote virtual auditions in all 50 states in their “Idol Across America” effort. The distanced auditions will allow budding Idols the ability to try out from anywhere, including in front of show producers, who will give real-time feedback; for a chance to audition click here. Entrants much be 15-years-old or older, check out the Insta post below to find out the audition schedule.
