American Idol is getting some new (and familiar) faces for its upcoming 13th season. Joining Keith Urban at the judges’ table will be former judge Jennifer Lopez, who left after Season 11, and Harry Connick, Jr., FOX announced on Tuesday. Also returning is Randy Jackson … but not as a judge. The Idol vet will now be the in-house mentor for the contestants.
And of course, Ryan Seacrest will also return as the host of American Idol. “I couldn’t be prouder to be a part of the AMERICAN IDOL XIII family. Our new producers, judging panel and mentor are all fired up for this season,” says Ryan, “I’ve already witnessed some amazingly talented contestants from around the country during our early auditions, cementing my belief that a new superstar is well within our sights.”
Keith is also excited for the new Idol. ”I think this season of IDOL is gonna be a blast,” he adds. “New team, new energy and a whole new field of artists to be discovered and given a chance!”
As for Randy, who announced his departure as a judge at the end of last season, he’s also looking forward to returning. “Surprise, surprise! I am so happy to be back as part of this amazing show that started it all. Season 1-3 is the place to be. The original talent show is back with a vengeance and ready to discover the best talent in America.”
“It was one of those things …it was so hard for me to leave the first time …[but] to be honest right now is the worst time for me to stop and do Idol! … I’m doing two movies and I have my album coming out, but I’m doing it because I want to. I love it!”
