'American Idol' Returns for Season Four on ABC — Meet the Judges and Host of the Beloved Show

The upcoming season of "American Idol" promises excitement and a new way of getting things done. From the updated way to audition to the host and judges for season 4.

The talent show got renewed before its third season came to an end in May. By then, the novel coronavirus had turned pandemic, and to keep the show on the road, so to speak, "American Idol" became one of the first programs to continue filming and producing remote episodes.

Now, with Season 4 in production, the show will hit another first. "Idol Across America" is already underway, and its a virtual way to snag an audition. The remote auditions cover all 50 states, and they can have an audience with a producer from the comfort of their homes.

HOST AND JUDGES

On Wednesday, ABC released the names of the host and judges for the fourth installment of beloved series, and president of ABC Entertainment, Karey Burke, couldn't be happier with the way "American Iol" continues to unite people during this difficult time.

Season 4 is expected to premiere sometime next year, and it sees Ryan Seacrest's return as the reality competition series' host. Back to fill their hot seats again, is also Luke Bryan, Lionel Richie, and Katy Perry.

A WINNING COMBINATION

ABC loves the chemistry shared between the foursome, and they are happy to have them back. as Burke said:

"There is no one who we feel more confident about leading us into a new season of high notes than Luke, Katy, Lionel, and the incomparable Ryan Seacrest."

The popular talent show's executive producer and showrunner Trish Kinane echoed similar words to Burke. While she gushed about their exceptional joint ability to spot talent, Kinane also added:

"Their chemistry is undeniable, and we are delighted that they, along with host Ryan Seacrest, are returning to find the next superstar."

ADVICE FOR HOPEFULS

Auditions will be a far cry from the knee-buckling experience in front of the judges it used to be. But Katy Perry reminded that hopefuls should still approach it from the same perspective.

Just because you can sing your heart out from the comfort of your lounge, doesn't mean it should sound like it. Imagine yourself to be singing for millions of people on stage, and let your star shine.

It is an exciting time for Katy Perry, who is also getting ready to welcome her first child with fiancé Orlando Bloom. Heavily pregnant, the singer has her hospital bag ready to go, and she eased up on physical activity considerably.

The couple, who became engaged on Valentine's Day last year, are expecting a girl, and Bloom is excited to have a daughter. The actor is already a dad to his 9-year-old son Flynn with his ex Miranda Kerr.