American Idol 2016. In May 2017, ABC acquired the rights to the series and the program would return for the 2017–18 television season. The show had originally planned on having four judges following the "Pop Idol" format; however, only three judges had been found by the time of the audition round in the first season, namely Randy Jackson, Paula Abdul and Simon Cowell. A fourth judge, radio DJ Stryker, was originally chosen but he dropped out citing "image concerns". In the second season, New York radio personality Angie Martinez had been hired as a fourth judge but withdrew only after a few
The American Idol Experience The American Idol Experience The American Idol Experience was a theme park attraction at Disney's Hollywood Studios at the Walt Disney World Resort. Inspired by the popular American television series "American Idol", the attraction invited park guests to audition in front of live audiences who would vote for their favorite singers. The attraction was announced on February 7, 2008, although specifics were not made public at that time. "American Idol" season six winner Jordin Sparks unveiled its official name and projected opening date during the "American Idol" season seven finale on May 21, 2008. Disney licensed the show's logos and