Bobby Bones Returns to American Idol as In-House Mentor
An all-new season of American Idol kicks off in spring 2020 and multimedia personality Bobby Bones will be returning as in-house mentor! The famed radio DJ, comedian and best-selling author will continue to offer his industry expertise to new Idol hopefuls throughout the competition, helping them reach the next level of their artistry and performances.
Also returning to help find the next singing sensation are music industry legends and all-star judges Luke Bryan, Katy Perry and Lionel Richie.
"American Idol is the original music competition series," said Karey Burke, president, ABC Entertainment. "It was the first of its kind to take everyday singers and catapult them into superstardom, launching the careers of so many amazing artists. We couldn't be more excited for Katy, Luke, Lionel and Bobby to continue in their roles as American Idol searches for the next great music star, with more live episodes and exciting, new creative elements coming this season."
"We are delighted to have our judges Katy, Luke and Lionel as well as in-house mentor Bobby back on American Idol," said executive producer and showrunner Trish Kinane. "They are all credible, hugely successful artists and will bring their expertise, passion and energy to the search for America's next superstar. They have an undeniable chemistry together making for another fun and exciting season!"
"We are thrilled to have all our judges and Bobby returning for a third season of American Idol on ABC," said Eli Holzman, CEO of Industrial Media, the parent company of 19 Entertainment. "Our partners at Fremantle and ABC are delivering our fans some of the best Idol seasons ever produced, and Katy, Luke and Lionel are inspiring and molding some of the greatest musical talent this show – or any other for that matter – has ever seen. We cannot wait to be introduced to the next crop of stars and we cannot wait to see who will be the next American Idol."
The all-new nationwide search for the next superstar kicked off with open call auditions in Brooklyn, New York, and will advance on to 21 additional cities across the country. In addition to auditioning in person, hopefuls can also submit audition videos online or show off their talent via Instagram, Facebook or Twitter using the hashtag #TheNextIdol. Visit americanidol.com/auditions for more details on specific audition locations, full eligibility requirements, submission forms, terms and conditions.