Fans of American Idol judges Katy Perry, Lionel Richie, and Luke Bryan are happy to hear that they will return for season 21 of the show, along with host Ryan Seacrest. Ryan began hosting the show in 2002 during season 1 when it aired on FOX. His co-host was Brian Dunkleman and Kelly Clarkson became the first ever American Idol. Ryan has hosted the show solo on FOX from season 2 until its cancellation by the network in 2016. He returned as the host when the show was revived by ABC in 2018, and Katy, Lionel, and Luke joined him as judges. They have judged the show for five seasons, helping to crown the most recent American Idol winners, Maddie Poppe, Laine Hardy, Just Sam, Chayce Beckham, and Noah Thompson.
Since its debut, American Idol has had an eclectic mix of judges. It began with the legendary trio of Paula Abdul, Randy Jackson, and Simon Cowell in 2002. In season 8, Kara DioGuardi joined the panel as a fourth judge, and stayed for two seasons. In season 9, Ellen DeGeneres replaced Paula for a season. Season 10 brought Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler to join Randy at the judges' table. In season 12, Mariah Carey, Nicki Minaj, and Keith Urban took over the judging duties alongside Randy. In season 13, Randy departed the show along with Mariah and Nicki, and they were replaced by returning judge Jennifer and Harry Connick, Jr., who joined Keith. Jennifer, Harry, and Keith were the judges in seasons 14 and 15, until American Idol was cancelled by FOX. When ABC revived the series, Katy, Lionel, and Luke became the judges.
In a press release, ABC announced that American Idol judges Katy, Lionel, Luke, and host Ryan will all return for season 21 (season 6 on ABC) in the spring of 2023. The press release also announced that season 6 auditions kick off Wednesday, August 3, when "Idol Across America" returns. "Idol Across America" is "the live virtual nationwide search for the next superstar." Auditions will take place across all 50 states plus Washington, D.C. They will begin with the annual First 500 event, during which American Idol hopefuls can sign up to grab a VIP spot before anyone else. "Idol Across America" offers potential contestants the chance to showcase their talents face-to-face with an American Idol producer, "from anywhere in America, across any official audition date for a chance to proceed to the judge audition round of the competition." The list of audition cities and dates, along with eligibility rules, can be found in the press release link.
In Instagram posts and stories, the judges and Ryan shared their excitement about their American Idol returns. Katy shared a funny Instagram reel that begins with a man saying "It's time for the moment you've been waiting for," with pictures of herself, Lionel, Luke, and Ryan. The final picture of Katy has the caption, "We're coming back." In the comments section, Ryan wrote, "Worth the wait," to which Lionel replied, "Took the words out of my mouth! [laughing emoji]." Ryan shared the reel to his Instagram story as well. Luke shared a post that said, "Your favorite judges and host are returning for another season of #Americanidol! Take a chance and possibly change your life by joining the virtual 'Idol Across America' tour starting 8/3! We can't wait to see you at auditions." Lionel's post included pictures of the group throughout the years with the caption, "Last year we went to the moon and back looking for stars on @americanidol. There aren't enough light years in the universe to stop this crew! @lukebryan, @katyperry, @ryanseacrest, and I are back for more #AmericanIdol! See you all in the fall!"
Katy, Lionel, and Luke have been fantastic American Idol judges throughout the past five seasons. They offer gentle critiques and help to mentor the contestants to turn them into superstars. They help them reach their full potentials and grow throughout the competition. Host Ryan is respectful and entertaining. American Idol season 21 is sure to be another huge success with these four amazing talents.
Source: ABC Press Release, Katy Perry/Instagram, Ryan Seacrest/Instagram, Luke Bryan/Instagram, Lionel Richie/Instagram