We’ve said our goodbye’s, wiped away our tears, and bid a fond farewell to the wildly popular singing competition American Idol. The original judges – Simon Cowell, Paula Abdul, and Randy Jackson – even graced the final episode of American Idol: The Farewell Season with their own goodbyes, and some classic sass from Simon.
But after less than a year, NBC and FremantleMedia are already considering reviving Idol, according to Variety. The Voice on NBC may have to move over for this returning superstar, which at the height of its popularity had over 100 million people voting in a single week. Like so many rock bands, it looks like the farewell tour could be lasting a bit longer for Idol, though NBC and FremantleMedia may be changing up the format to bring the show fresh vigor.
As reported by US Weekly, Idol creator Simon Fuller said in early April that in the future there will “no doubt be another format or refinement or elevation of the format,” but it looks like FOX will not be hanging on to Idol, if the show really does return to television.
American Idol was the highest rated show on television for eight consecutive seasons, so it’s no wonder NBC is looking to bring it back. The show has helped to create numerous stars of the musical world like Kelly Clarkson, Jordin Sparks, and Adam Lambert. While there will always be an array of talented singers lining up to prove themselves on national television, it is the stable personalities which make shows like American Idol so much fun to watch. Few can be said to rival the entertainment factor provided by the original trio of Simon, Paula, and Randy. So if Idol 2.0 becomes a reality, it will need top-notch judges and hosts.
Is bringing Idol back really a good idea? Will long-time host Ryan Seacrest be picked up for the next generation of American Idol? And most importantly: where will NBC find a judge as sincerely sarcastic as Simon Cowell?