Harry Connick Jr., Jennifer Lopez Officially Join ‘American Idol’
It’s official. Harry Connick Jr. and Jennifer Lopez will be joining Keith Urban this year on American Idol.
Fox made the announcement today saying that it was truly a “dream team” cast.
The Hollywood Reporter notes that Fox secured it’s all-star cast just in time for the new season. Production on season 13 of American Idol is set to start on September 3 in Boston.
Fox also announced that Randy Jackson would be returning as the show’s in-house mentor. Ryan Seacrest will also return as the show’s host.
Kevin Reilly, chairman of entertainment, Fox Broadcasting Co., said: “Next season our judging panel will deliver a most impressive combination of talent, wisdom and personality… Jennifer Lopez, the triple-threat global superstar who loves Idol and whom Idol fans love; Harry Connick, Jr., a bona-fide musical genius and fantastic Idol mentor whose honesty and expertise can help turn these hopefuls into stars; Keith Urban, a multi-Grammy-winning artist who was such a positive force on the show last season. We are also very excited to have our friend Randy Jackson now in a new role as mentor, and the captain of our team — the heart and soul of Idol— Ryan Seacrest returning as host.”
Jennifer Lopez and Harry Connick Jr. may be a new addition for season 13 but both stars have plenty of Idol experience. Lopez was a judge on the show during season 10 and 11 while Connick has appeared as a mentor and a performer several times over the years.
Connick Jr. said: “I have always been a huge fan of American Idol and really enjoyed my time as a mentor on the show…. And I am honored that they’ve asked me to be a judge this season. As an entertainer, I am truly excited to bring my perspective to American Idol, and to help emerging performers find their way.”
Urban, who is the sole returning judge this season, added: “I think this season of Idol is gonna be a blast… New team, new energy and a whole new field of artists to be discovered and given a chance!”
Do you think Harry Connick Jr. will make a good addition to American Idol? Are you happy to see Jennifer Lopez returning to the judge’s pannel?
