AceShowbiz -

It seems like ABC wins the bidding war for "American Idol" revival. New report suggests that the Alphabet is near a deal to bring back the one-time ratings juggernaut in 2018.

ABC has "a deal in place with FremantleMedia and Core Media Group" to revive the show for a March premiere, Variety reports. Should the deal be closed, it means that ABC, who joined the "American Idol" sweepstakes last, beat out other strong contenders including FOX and NBC.

It was previously reported that ABC wanted to bring original host Ryan Seacrest to the revival. However, it is yet to be known whether or not Ryan will return to the franchise. Earlier this week, Ryan was announced as the new permanent co-host on "Live". He has to commute all the way to New York for his new show, making it difficult for Ryan to return to "American Idol", which is based in Los Angeles.

Former judge Simon Cowell is also unlikely to join the program as he produces NBC's summer show "America's Got Talent". However, rumor has it that Kelly Clarkson potentially joins the show.

"American Idol" ran for 15 seasons on FOX, before concluding its most recent season 15 in 2016. Kelly, Carrie Underwood, Jennifer Hudson and Jordin Sparks are among huge stars who were born through the show. The show also featured several big names, including Jennifer Lopez, Keith Urban, Simon, Nicki Minaj and Mariah Carey, as panel judges.

ABC is expected to officially announce the return of "American Idol" at its upfront presentation to advertisers in New York next week.