Seacrest Re-Ups With Idol

• In a not-so-shocking piece of news, it was announced that Ryan Seacrest would return as the host of American Idol for its upcoming third season on ABC. Seacrest has been with the show since it launched on Fox back in 2002. Variety reports the news of Seacrest’s return comes on the heels of the August announcement that the show’s current judging panel of Luke Bryan, Katy Perry and Lionel Richie would all be returning for the new season of American Idol as well.

In a statement, Seacrest said, “American Idol has been my home for 17 seasons and I can’t wait to return to the stage. It’s the greatest gift to be able to play a part in discovering new talent with a franchise that has been such a relevant part of American culture for so many years.” Karey Burke, President of ABC Entertainment, commented, “We are delighted that our entire Idol dream team will be reuniting for the upcoming season on ABC,” said “Ryan has been hosting Idol since the beginning, and the energy and enthusiasm he brings to the show after 17 seasons are remarkable. We can’t wait to see what’s in store as Ryan, our superstar judges and in-house mentor set out on their nationwide search for the next great music sensation.”

And yes, Seacrest will continue to host his Premiere-syndicated On Air with Ryan Seacrest, based at KIIS-FM/Los Angeles. He will also remain co-host and executive producer on ABC’s Live with Kelly and Ryan and keep New Year’s Eve open for his other annual gig, hosting Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve with Ryan Seacrest. Season Three of American Idol on ABC will launch in spring 2020.