Jennifer Lopez, Keith Urban and Harry Connick Jr. will return as judges for the next installment of the singing competition show.
- Jun 24, 2014
AceShowbiz - "American Idol" has announced the line-up for its 14th installment. It's officially announced that all three judges from season 13, Jennifer Lopez, Keith Urban and Harry Connick Jr., as well as host Ryan Seacrest, will return for next season.
"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," says 21st Century Fox senior exec vp David Hill. "Each brings unique qualities and expertise to the team, but they all share the same passion for helping undiscovered singers achieve the American dream."
Creator and executive producer Simon Fuller adds, "I am thrilled our consummate host, Mr. Ryan Seacrest, is returning for Season 14, together with Jennifer, Harry and Keith. Their interaction, warmth and experience made them an absolute joy to watch. I can't wait to see their evolution together continue next season."
Executive producer Trish Kinane says that the judges' "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."
Connick Jr. and Seacrest had previously been locked for season 14, while J.Lo and Urban had been expected to return as well. Seacrest's new deal will keep him on the show for at least the next two years should FOX renew the singing competition series for a 15th season.
"Idol" will be trimmed from more than 50 episodes to 37 in season 14. Auditions for the new season are currently underway, with the next stops including New Orleans on June 25, Long Island, N.Y. on July 23, Nashville on July 30, and San Francisco on September 29.
