There's apparently no stopped the American Idol machine. The 11th season of the reality show will premiere on Sunday, January 22 after the NFC Championship game. Last year there was a change-up with the departure of several judges, including the infamous Simon Cowell, who will be returning as judge of the new Fox reality show The X Factor this fall. With Simon and Ellen gone, the show brought in Steven Tyler and Jennifer Lopez to join Randy Jackson at the judges' table.
Fox has confirmed that all three judges from season 10 will be returning for season 11 of
American Idol. Ryan Seacrest will also be resuming his duties as host.
"Having both Jennifer and Steven return to Idol in 2012 alongside Randy is such a positive reflection on what was a wonderful and hugely successful season last year, and everyone is delighted," said Simon Fuller, Creator and Executive Producer, American Idol.
"I am very pleased to have our panel of judges back for the 11th season of American Idol," said executive producer Cecile Frot-Coutaz. "Their chemistry and ability to select amazing talent made last season one of our most successful yet, and we look forward to going on another exciting ride."
American Idol recently received 10 Primetime Emmy Award nominations, more than any other reality program on television and the most nominations in the show's history. Highlights include Emmy nominations for Outstanding Reality-Competition Program as well as an Outstanding Host for a Reality or Reality-Competition Program for Ryan Seacrest.