AMERICAN Idol’s season 20 premiered February 27 at 8pm on ABC.
The show welcomed back several judges with one notable difference.
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Who are the American Idol judges 2022?
American Idol’s judges are a trio audiences have come to know and love: Luke Bryan, Lionel Richie, and Katy Perry.
“Katy, Lionel and Luke are fun, astute and really know how to spot talent,” said executive producer and showrunner Trish Kinane on the return of the three judges.
“Their chemistry is undeniable, and we are delighted that they, along with host Ryan Seacrest, are returning to find the next superstar and take American Idol to new heights next season.”
This season has already brought laughs and tears during this special season.
However, Bobby Bones who was the fourth judge in the previous four seasons was removed due to conflicting commitments.
In a now-expired Instagram post, Bones said, “Some of you noticed I’m not in the Idol promos this season. My contract (with) my new network won’t let me do another show right now. Love Idol, btw. Was a great 4 years.”
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Wolflick said they don’t have another person lined up to take Bones’ place, but there are alternative ideas in the works to include former American Idol contestants and winners.
Ryan Seacrest, who has fronted the show since its inception in 2002, will return as host.
When does American Idol 2022 start?
The 20th season of American Idol kicked off on February 27, 2022 on ABC.
Season 18 of American Idol shut down due to Covid-19 protocols, but it was the first reality competition series to return to screens and air remotely.
Using custom-built Zoom technology, contestants that sang for producers got a green light to move onto a judges audition.
This season, American Idol aired live again, but with necessary safety protocols in place.
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To ensure the protection of the cast, crew and participants, the number of cities where the auditions were held were reduced, and the judges will be socially distanced.
How can I watch American Idol?
Fans can watch this season of American Idol weekly on Sundays at 8pm ET, on ABC.
Tune into the competition on ABC, or stream on ABC.com or the ABC app after signing in with your TV service provider. ABC programming can also be viewed on Hulu.
The winner of American Idol 2020 was Just Sam, née Samantha Diaz, who is a 23-year-old singer-songwriter from Harlem, New York.
“Literally, I could have walked away with nothing and been OK, but I walked away with everything,” Just Sam told Parade after her win.
“Wow! This is more than a dream come true. I am so grateful to have given this gift to my grandmother.”
The winner of American Idol 2021 was Chayce Beckham, 26, a singer-songwriter from Apple Valley, California.
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