Jennifer Lopez, Steven Tyler, Randy Jackson officially returning to 'American Idol'

Ryan Seacrest will also be back in the fold for Season 11

By Daniel Fienberg Wednesday, Aug 17, 2011 12:53 PM

Ryan Seacrest, Jennifer Lopez, Steven Tyler and Randy Jackson of 'American Idol

Credit: FOX

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FOX is keeping its entire "American Idol" team together with Wednesday's (August 17) official announcement that Jennifer Lopez, Steven Tyler and Randy Jackson will be returning as judges for the hit series' 11th season.

We know. You're shocked, right?

Want more incredulity? Ryan Seacrest will return for his 11th season hosting "American Idol" and his 10th season hosting "American Idol" without Brian Dunkleman.

"From the very first day of auditions, we knew we had something special in our new judges panel, and weâ€™re so happy that America felt that way too," states FOX reality guru Mike Darnell, President of Alternative Entertainment, Fox Broadcasting Company. "Together with Ryan -- who is fantastic day in and day out -- they built an incredible connection with both the contestants and our viewers, and Iâ€™m absolutely thrilled to welcome them all back to 'Idol' for another season."

There was never really any doubt about Jackson's return to the judging panel and Tyler had a two-year contract from the beginning. The only real hold-out was Lopez, whose public image was rejuvenated by her season in the "Idol" spotlight. Although there were brief waves of rumors suggesting she might depart the smash hit, negotiations have been ongoing for weeks to bring Lopez back, though FOX executives were unable to confirm a deal in time for the recent Television Critics Association press tour.

Now, though? The gang is finally back together.

"Having both Jennifer and Steven return to 'Idol' in 2012 alongside Randy is such a positive reflection on what was a wonderful and hugely successful season last year, and everyone is delighted," states series creator/executive producer Simon Fuller.

Adds executive producer Cecile Frot-Coutaz, "I am very pleased to have our panel of judges back for the 11th season of 'American Idol.' Their chemistry and ability to select amazing talent made last season one of our most successful yet, and we look forward to going on another exciting ride."

The 2012 installment of "American Idol" will premiere on FOX on Sunday, January 22 with an audition episode airing immediately following the NFC Championship game.

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Daniel Fienberg
Executive Editor

A long-time member of the TCA Board and a longer-time blogger of "American Idol," Dan Fienberg writes about TV, except for when he writes about movies or sometimes writes about the Red Sox. But never music. He would sound stupid talking about music.

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Kevin

Randy, J-Lo and Stephen need to be called something other than "judges." Maybe something like "Lythgoe-bots." Judging wasn't part of the equation for most fo the season (unless your name was Haley Reinhart).
August 17, 2011 at 2:30PM EST Reply to Comment

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Jennifer Lopez, Steven Tyler, Randy Jackson officially returning to 'American Idol'