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?