‘American Idol’ Officially Returning to ABC: Dim The Lights, Here We Go
There will be at least one additional moment like this: After airing its final episode on FOX in 2016, American Idol is coming back — this time, to ABC.
The network announced today (May 9) that it outbid FOX to revive the series, which it promised would be in good hands alongside huge reality franchises like Dancing With The Stars and The Bachelor.
American Idol aired 15 seasons between 2002 and 2016.
“American Idol is a pop-culture staple that left the air too soon,” ABC Entertainment president Channing Dungey said, according to Entertainment Weekly. “ABC is the right home to reignite the fan base. We are thrilled viewers will once again share in these inspiring stories of people realizing their dreams.”
"America, get ready for the return of a bigger, bolder and better-than-ever Idol,” Disney co-chairman Ben Sherwood added.
New Live! host Ryan Seacrest, who hosted each Idol season, said yesterday (May 8) he only recently found out the show is returning, and hasn't decided whether he would return with it given the chance.
“I don’t know about that part yet, we haven’t gotten that far,” he said, but noted his new job’s parent company would make the gig easier. “I said, ‘Well, that’s kind of good to know, I work here!'”
Defining American Idol Season 1 Moments: