3 Things We Know About The New American Idol On ABC

American Idol is back but this time on ABC. The first episode of Season 16 aired on Sunday night with its new judges Katy Perry, Lionel Richie, and Luke Bryan. Ryan Seacrest is back as the reboot’s host. So what else do we know about American Idol 2018?

American Idol created by Simon Fuller ended its 15th season in 2016 on Fox. Its first episode premiered in 2002. The show’s first ever winner was a name we all know until now, Kelly Clarkson. AI played a very big role in discovering famous singers like Carrie Underwood, Fantasia, Jordin Sparks, David Cook, Scotty McCreery and more.

A dispute between American Idol’s producer Fremantle Media and Core Media group almost stopped the show’s revival. But in May 2017, Variety reported that ABC has acquired the rights to the show and was confirmed to return this year. AI has been around the US since October for the auditions.

American Idol 2018, What we know so far

1. No Simon Cowell

One of the biggest reasons why viewers watch American Idol apart from the talented singers is Simon Cowell being Simon Cowell. His rather unlikely way of commenting on the singers’ performances have been quite entertaining for many years. The Hollywood Reporter confirms the list of judges and no Simon Cowell.

2. AI season 16 judges and host

Katy Perry was first to be announced as a judge in May 2017. Variety says Perry settled for a salary of $25 million. In September, American country singer and songwriter Luke Bryan was the second to be announced as part of the judging panel. Lionel Richie, on the other hand, was the last to be confirmed as AI’s judge in September.

Despite the controversies Ryan Seacrest has been facing, he comes back as the host for the show on ABC. The same report on Variety says he “struck a deal that gave him $15 million to host this season.

3. AI Season 16 follows the same format as the old AI

The Hollywood Reporter says the new American Idol on ABC still has the same format as that of the past 15 episodes. Singers perform in front of the judges and if each of them vote “yes,” they would get a golden ticket that brings them to Hollywood Week.

American Idol Season 16 premiered on March 11. Watch some audition videos of Catie Turner, Ron Bultongez, Madie Poppe, Koby, and Harper Grace via American Idol’s official YouTube here.