Katy Perry is the first judge announced for the ABC reboot of American Idol coming in 2018. ABC Entertainment President Channing Dungey made the announce at Tuesday’s (May 16th) Upfront presentation at David Geffen Hall in New York City.
“I am honored and thrilled to be the first judge bringing back the American Idol tradition of making dreams come true for incredible talents with authentic personalities and real stories,” states Perry. “I’m always listening to new music, and love discovering diamonds in the rough – from mentoring young artists on my label, or highlighting new artists on my tours, I want to bring it back to the music.
“We are thrilled to be ushering in this new era of American Idol with Katy leading the charge,” says Dungey. “Her incredible accolades speak for themselves. We are so lucky to have this strong and talented woman help inspire and guide the next crop of artists as they pursue their dreams.”
“I am honored and thrilled to be the first judge bringing back the American Idol tradition of making dreams come true for incredible talents with authentic personalities and real stories.”
Other judges are expected to be announced soon. Variety reports that Carrie Underwood, Adam Lambert, Chris Martin of Coldplay, Chris Daughtry, Kellie Pickler, and Fantasia Barrino, many of whom are Idol alums, are rumored to be joining Perry at the judges table.
Ryan Seacrest is also close to signing a deal to return as host even though he just joined Live With Kelly and Ryan as co-host and executive producer. This scenario would require Seacrest to jet set across the U.S. from New York City to Los Angeles once or twice per week, depending on how ABC handles the show.
ABC Entertainment President Channing Dungey revealed during a phone call with reporters on Tuesday that “You will see clear ABC hallmark and brand” as part of some American Idol changes when it returns in 2018. What those changes are weren’t revealed during the call.
American Idol is produced by FremantleMedia North America and 19 Entertainment, a division of CORE Media Group. Executive producers include FremantleMedia North America’s Trish Kinane and Jennifer Mullin. FremantleMedia International distributes the series worldwide.
