Just weeks before it crowns the next “American Idol,” ABC’s adaptation of the popular reality competition series can breath easy knowing it’ll be back for another round on America’s Network. On Friday, May 4, the alphabet officially greenlit the Ryan Seacrest hosted series for a second season, set to air during the 2018-2019 TV season. Luke Bryan, Katy Perry and Lionel Richie are all signed on to return as judges.
During its debut season on ABC, “American Idol” has dominated its time period, emerging as Sunday’s highest-rated entertainment broadcast in the key Adults 18-49 demographic. The show is tops in Adults 18-34, across all key Women (W18-34, W18-49, W25-54) and Teens 12-17. For the season, and including delayed viewing, “Idol” has averaged 9.3 million viewers and a 2.1/8 in Adults 18-49. It is the most social primetime reality series of the year, according to Nielsen’s Social Content Ratings (01/01/2018 – 04/29/18)
“We knew that ‘American Idol’ on ABC would unleash an opportunity for singers from all walks of life to realize their dreams and that these incredible contestants would have America rooting for their success,” said Channing Dungey, president, ABC Entertainment, in announcing the renewal. “I am thrilled that Katy, Luke, Lionel and Ryan will be back to once again embark on this Idol journey with us to discover the next crop of inspiring talent.”
“‘American Idol’s’ return on ABC has shown once again that viewers love to discover and support raw talent,” said Trish Kinane, president of Entertainment Programming, FremantleMedia North America, executive producer and showrunner of “American Idol.” “Our new judges Katy Perry, Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie have brought huge credibility, energy and fun to the show this year, and we are so excited to continue the journey with Ryan Seacrest at the helm in the search for the next superstar.”
Dennis Miller, executive chairman of CORE Media Group, added, “Our team is incredibly proud of the success we have had with ‘American Idol’ on ABC, and we are excited to search for more talent nationwide with a second season. We look forward to furthering our relationship with the network, our partners at FremantleMedia, Luke, Katy, Lionel, Ryan, and all those who audition to become the next American Idol as we continue to entertain fans with incredible performances week after week!”
“American Idol” airs Sundays at 8:00 p.m. ET on ABC.