Katy Perry, Lionel Richie, and Luke Bryan will remain judges for season four of the revamped version of American Idol, ABC announced Wednesday in a press release. Ryan Seacrest will continue as the show’s long-lasting host next year as well.
“‘American Idol’ has always been able to bring people together, entertain and inspire – and I am so proud of how this show continued to deliver joy and laughter into people’s homes during a time when we needed it the most,” said Kaey Burke, president of ABC Entertainment. “There is no one who we feel more confident about leading us into a new season of high notes than Luke, Katy, Lionel and the incomparable Ryan Seacrest.”
Due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, things will remain the way the last season ended: virtual. Aspiring contestants are auditioning via video for the foreseeable future.
“We are so grateful to the fans for sticking with us – and pushing us to No. 1 – during this most challenging of times. And we are thrilled to be able to welcome Ryan, Katy, Lionel and Luke back to help us discover our next American Idol,” said executive producer Eli Holzman. “At times like these, it is more important than ever to give families wholesome entertainment, packed full of hope, talent and inspiration – where dreams come true. And that is what ‘American Idol’ is all about.”
American Idol’s fourth season kicks off next spring.
