Katy Perry in Bon Appetit | Capitol Records
ABC recently announced that it is bringing back “American Idol” for the 2017-18 television season, but it has yet to reveal the planned judges or hosts.
It may be close to naming at least one of the principals.
According to TMZ, “American Idol” is in the process of securing Katy Perry as a judge for the upcoming sixteenth “Idol” season. ABC is hoping the deal will be signed in time for Tuesday’s upfront.
If the deal came together by then, Perry would also be able to discuss it during her May 19 “Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon” appearance.
“Idol” is not yet close to naming the other two judges, but TMZ says they will probably not be high-profile (see: expensive) music stars. It will likely be music industry professionals (songwriters or producers) joining Perry on the panel.
While the logistics will be difficult given that he is now co-anchoring “Live With Kelly and Ryan” in New York, Ryan Seacrest is expected to host the new “Idol” season.