FOX has officially confirmed the return of all the judges for American Idol 2012 after Nigel Lythgoe let the word slip the other week. Apparently Jennifer Lopez, the sole holdout, had not yet signed her contract. But now she has and is $20 million richer for it.
FOX released their usual “greatest season ever!” press release with all the highlights you’ll need for the new Idol season. Highlight of the news is the American Idol 2012 premiere date set for Sunday, January 22, 2012 on FOX.
Global icon Jennifer Lopez, rock legend Steven Tyler and Grammy Award-winning producer Randy Jackson will return to the judges’ panel for the 11th season of AMERICAN IDOL. The trio, along with Emmy®-nominated host Ryan Seacrest, will begin their search for America’s next singing superstar when AMERICAN IDOL debuts Sunday, Jan. 22 (10:00-11:00 PM ET/7:00-8:00 PM PT), immediately following the NFC CHAMPIONSHIP GAME on FOX.
AMERICAN IDOL recently received an incredible 10 Primetime Emmy® Award nominations, more than any other reality program on television and the most nominations in the show’s history. Highlights include Emmy® nominations for Outstanding Reality-Competition Program as well as an Outstanding Host for a Reality or Reality-Competition Program for Ryan Seacrest.
“Having both Jennifer and Steven return to IDOL in 2012 alongside Randy is such a positive reflection on what was a wonderful and hugely successful season last year, and everyone is delighted,” said Simon Fuller, Creator and Executive Producer, AMERICAN IDOL.
“I am very pleased to have our panel of judges back for the 11th season of AMERICAN IDOL,” said executive producer Cecile Frot-Coutaz. “Their chemistry and ability to select amazing talent made last season one of our most successful yet, and we look forward to going on another exciting ride.”
“From the very first day of auditions, we knew we had something special in our new judges panel, and we’re so happy that America felt that way too,” said Mike Darnell, President of Alternative Entertainment, Fox Broadcasting Company. “Together with Ryan – who is fantastic day in and day out – they built an incredible connection with both the contestants and our viewers, and I’m absolutely thrilled to welcome them all back to IDOL for another season.”
The final day of 2012 auditions wraps up this week, but then the judges will continue touring the country for the callback events. Lots more news should be coming soon as the new season closes in with just four months to go.
Source: FOX press release