‘American Idol’ News: All Three Judges Ink Deals For Season 14
All three American Idol judges have signed on to do Season 14 of the show. Jennifer Lopez, Keith Urban, and Harry Connick, Jr., will all be rejoining the judges’ panel. Their chemistry was great and people really loved the way the three interacted with one another. Most fans are thrilled to hear that they will all be back. According to Variety, the show’s host, Ryan Seacrest, has also signed on for Season 14 (there was some speculation that he was going to leave his post after 14 seasons).
David Hill, senior executive VP at 21st Century Fox, confirmed the news:
“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.”
American Idol is not nearly as popular as it once was. With other competition shows getting more attention (The Voice and Rising Star, for example), Idol isn’t exactly doing great in the ratings department. It is, however, hanging on, and those behind-the-scenes really hope that Season 14 is successful and that the winner actually makes something of themselves. That has become somewhat of a problem recently. The last big star to come out of the singing show was Carrie Underwood. Since then, no one has done anything extraordinary in the business. Trish Kinane, president [of] entertainment, FremantleMedia North America and “Idol” exec producer, shared her enthusiasm:
“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.”
As previously reported by The Inquisitr, Jennifer Lopez just signed on to judge X FactorAustralia — but just as a guest judge (she is slated to appear in three episodes). Hopefully her schedule for American Idol won’t interfere — the judges will start filming the live auditions on June 25. The judges will visit New Orleans, Long Island, Nashville, and San Francisco looking for talent. Will Season 14 of American Idol be the last? According to ABC News:
“The show’s ratings have sagged in recent years to the lowest since the inaugural season and less than half that of its top years from 2005-2009.”
[Photo courtesy of Variety]
