Luke Bryan Joining Idol?

The forthcoming ABC reboot of American Idol has reportedly locked down Country star Luke Bryan as a second judge, joining Katy Perry. That’s the word from Variety, citing sources from the show that have apparently confirmed Bryan’s hire. The show is cutting it close — auditions formally get underway in less than a week. While that third judge spot has yet to be locked down, word from inside the production is that Idol will stick with a panel of three judges.

Lionel Richie, who was reported to have been in advanced talks to join the show, appears to no longer be in the running. Other artists considered for the panel included Charlie Puth and former Idol judge Keith Urban, although Variety says it looks unlikely that either will round out the judges’ table.

ABC’s revival of the long-running Fox music competition has been slowly taking shape since it was first announced in May. Perry was revealed to be the first judge inked shortly thereafter, pulling down a reported $25 million payday. Ryan Seacrest, who has hosted every season of the original American Idol, told reporters backstage at this weekend’s iHeartRadio Music Festival that an announcement about judges is expected shortly.

American Idol is slated to premiere in early March, shortly after the Oscars, which will be held on March 4. The show will reportedly air on Sunday and Monday nights.