Seacrest & Season 13 Judges Returning to American Idol

LOS ANGELES: Host Ryan Seacrest and judges Jennifer Lopez, Keith Urban and Harry Connick Jr. are coming back for the 14th season of American Idol, which is slated to launch on FOX in 2015.

Seacrest has been presenting the show, produced by FremantleMedia North America and 19 Entertainment, since its premiere in 2002, while Lopez, Urban and Connick Jr. came on board as judges in 2007, 2008 and 2010, respectively. Ongoing auditions for contestants are taking place in across the U.S. this summer.

David Hill, the senior executive VP of 21st Century Fox, commented: "Jennifer, Keith, Harry and Ryan are the very best in the business at what they do, and I'm thrilled that they are returning to American Idol for another season. Each brings unique qualities and expertise to the team, but they all share the same passion for helping undiscovered singers achieve the American dream."

Trish Kinane, the president of entertainment at FremantleMedia North America and executive producer of American Idol, said: "I am delighted that our dream team of Jennifer, Keith and Harry are back for American Idol XIV. Their experience, humor and passion for new talent has made them one of Idol's strongest-ever judging panels, and coupled with the expertise and charisma of Ryan Seacrest, we are ready to get out there to find the best talent in America."

"I am thrilled our consummate host, Mr. Ryan Seacrest, is returning for Season 14, together with Jennifer, Harry and Keith," added Simon Fuller, creator and exec producer of American Idol. "Their interaction, warmth and experience made them an absolute joy to watch. I can't wait to see their evolution together continue next season."