ABC announced on Wednesday, August 19, that Luke Bryan, Katy Perry, and Lionel Richie will return as judges along with host Ryan Seacrest for the next season of “American Idol.”

Last season, “American Idol” was forced to air the show remotely due to the coronavirus pandemic.

“American Idol has always been able to bring people together, entertain and inspire – and I am so proud of how this show continued to deliver joy and laughter into people’s homes during a time when we needed it the most,” Karey Burke, president, ABC Entertainment said in a statement. “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.”

Executive Producer and showrunner Trish Kinane added, “Katy, Lionel and Luke are fun, astute and really know how to spot talent. 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.”

The producers have already commenced the search for the next singing sensation with “Idol Across America” remote virtual auditions taking place across all 50 states.

(Photo: ABC/Gavin Bond)