Ryan Seacrest Will Host ABC’s ‘American Idol’
Hit All the High Notes
For exclusive news and updates, subscribe to our American Idol Newsletter:
In another bit of not-so-surprising news regarding TV hosts, the ever-present Ryan Seacrest announced Thursday on Live With Kelly and Ryan that he will be back to host American Idol when the hit singing competition series returns for a new season on ABC next year.
“It’s genuinely hard to put into words what American Idol means to me,” said Seacrest in an ABC release. “I’m so grateful for the show and all the career and life opportunities it’s allowed me to experience. It’s been an incredible journey from day one. To be asked to return this year, at my new home at Disney|ABC, is an honor, if not a bit surreal. I believe ABC is the perfect home for Idol, and I’ve every confidence the show’s legions of fans will love it – especially Idol’s best traditions of showcasing heartwarming stories, remarkable talent discovery, and, best of all, making dreams come true.”
Seacrest’s return is certainly not shocking, and fits the pattern of networks sticking with original hosts to helm “rebooted” versions of fan-favorite series, much as Discovery brought back Ben Bailey to host the new Cash Cab and TLC recruited Paige Davis for its new season of Trading Spaces. Likewise, American Idol really wouldn’t seem the same without Seacrest.
The nationwide search for the next American Idol kicks off on Aug. 17 as the Idol Bus tour crosses America a chance to audition. Visit americanidol.com for more details on auditions and eligibility requirements.
American Idol, Coming in 2018 on ABC
Watchlist Easy access to only the shows you care about — all in one simple place
Alerts Only important notifications — when a show is returning, when it becomes available to stream, and more.
Special Offers Exclusive products we release related to your favorite shows and streaming services