American Idol (season 14) talent. Some of these changes came in response to the falling popularity and viewership of "Idol" in comparison to NBC's competing series "The Voice"; viewership of the thirteenth season had fallen by 27%. Former judge Randy Jackson, who served as a mentor on the previous season, left the show and was succeeded by Big Machine Records founder Scott Borchetta. In May 2014, Ryan Seacrest signed a two-year extension to remain host of "Idol" through 2016, which would be the show's final season. Long-time sponsor Coca-Cola ended its relationship with the series, and the Ford Motor Company maintained a reduced role.
American Idol "Idol" set. Three judges, whose mannerisms and style mimicked those of the real "Idol" judges, critiqued the performances. Audience members then voted for their favorite performer. There were several preliminary-round shows during the day that culminated in a "finals" show in the evening where one of the winners of the previous rounds that day was selected as the overall winner. The winner of the finals show received a "Dream Ticket" that granted them front-of-the-line privileges at any future "American Idol" audition. The attraction closed on August 30, 2014. "American Idol" is broadcast to over 100 nations outside of the United