“American Idol” fans, rejoice! The popular show is finally making its comeback in 2018.
After 15 seasons on Fox, the singing competition series is returning to ABC with a set of new hosts and changes. Curious about the history of the program? Here are five things you should know.
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The show was created by Simon Fuller.
The series is based on Fuller’s British program “Pop Idol,” which was inspired by the New Zealand show “Popstars.” Fuller was particularly drawn to “Popstar’s” unique audition process and panel of judges. For “Pop Idol,” he added telephone voting by the public and the backstories of the contestants.
After shopping the idea around in the United States, Fox picked up the show. It began airing onJune 11, 2002, and it ended its first run on April 7, 2016.
There have been more than 10 judges.
The show had 15 seasons during its first run and a variety judges that spanned all genres and components of music. There were a total of 11 judges, including Simon Cowell, Paula Abdul, Randy Jackson, Nicki Minaj, Keith Urban, Ellen DeGeneres and others. In the beginning, there were two hosts: Brian Dunkleman and Ryan Seacrest. After season one, Ryan Seacrest took on the hosting responsibilities solo.
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It’s spawned hundreds of Billboard-charting songs.
Its most popular contestants include Kelly Clarkson, Carrie Underwood, Chris Daughtry, Fantasia, Jennifer Hudson and Jordin Sparks. "Since its inception on June 11, 2002, 'Idol' has spawned 345 Billboard chart-toppers and a platoon of pop idols" within 10 years, Billboard reported.
“American Idol” gives back.
In the sixth season, the show introduced the charity event "Idol Gives Back." It featured performances by celebrities and various fund-raising initiatives. It carried over to seasons seven and nine and raised millions, according to The New York Times.
ABC revived the show in 2017.
In 2017, NBC was in talks to revive the show on it’s network. After negotiations fell through, ABC revived it and announced plans to premiere March 11, 2018. Katy Perry, Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie will be the new judges and Ryan Seacrest will remain the host.
