Global Icon Mariah Carey and Music Industry Veteran Randy Jackson Welcome Nicki Minaj and Keith Urban to Judges’ Table of American Idol

Sunday, September 16, 2012 Fox Broadcasting Company announced that when AMERICAN IDOL’s 12^th season debuts in January 2013, superstar judge Mariah Carey – the best-selling female recording artist of all time – and returning judge Randy Jackson, a Grammy Award-winning producer whose expertise and beloved persona have been instrumental in discovering IDOL talent from the beginning, will be joined by two new judges: quadruple-platinum singer, songwriter, rapper and fashion icon Nicki Minaj; and Keith Urban, a four-time Grammy Award winner who has sold more than 15 million albums.

Hopefuls will meet host Ryan Seacrest and the new four-person panel of Carey, Jackson, Minaj and Urban today, when the auditions begin in New York City. Other audition cities include Los Angeles, Chicago, Charlotte, San Antonio, Baton Rouge and Oklahoma City.

Carey is a multiple Grammy Award-winning global superstar with more than 200 million records sold worldwide and more No. 1 songs than any solo artist in history, whose 18 Billboard No. 1 singles (17 of which Carey wrote) rival all but The Beatles. Jackson is a Grammy Award-winning producer who has worked on more than 1,000 gold and multi-platinum albums, which have sold more than 200 million albums worldwide. His amazing talent, vast studio knowledge, performing, touring and record company experience have made him one of today’s most coveted music industry experts. Known for her unique performance style and iconic fashion, Minaj became the first female solo artist to have seven singles simultaneously on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Urban, one of country music’s biggest stars of the decade, has four Grammy Awards and 14 No. 1 hits, and was named Male Vocal Artist of the Year three times, as well as Entertainer of the Year, by the Country Music Association.

“I am thrilled about this year’s judges’ panel! We’ve got global icon Mariah Carey and IDOL’s heart and soul Randy Jackson, who will be joined by Nicki Minaj and Keith Urban. Nicki’s an unbelievably captivating international phenomenon who has made an indelible mark on rap and pop. And Keith is another great addition to IDOL – he’s one of the biggest stars in country music and I know that our fans and contestants will fall in love with him,” said Mike Darnell, President of Alternative Entertainment, Fox Broadcasting Company. “With an unparalleled star like Mariah, fan-favorite Randy, chart-toppers like Nicki and Keith and our incomparable host Ryan, we’ve put together one of the most exciting judging panels around.” 

“We’re ecstatic to welcome Nicki Minaj and Keith Urban to the AMERICAN IDOL family, joining Mariah and Randy at the judges’ table,” said Cecile Frot-Coutaz, CEO, FremantleMedia. “Nicki is someone who represents a different side of the music industry, who has now crossed into mainstream culture with her unique artistry, style and flair. Keith is one of country music’s true stars who brings with him charm, wit and knowledge about the industry.”

Executive producer Simon Fuller noted, “With the exciting addition of Mariah Carey, Keith Urban and Nicki Minaj, alongside Randy Jackson, AMERICAN IDOL’s star power has never been so great. For this we have to thank the ongoing commitment and belief of FOX and the dedication and focus of the IDOL production team. We have all been together since the very beginning and we are focused on making IDOL Season 12 the best ever.”

“IDOL has truly never looked better,” said Marc Graboff, President of CORE Media Group (owner, 19 Entertainment). “We couldn’t be more pleased about this new team of judges, and, along with our partners at FOX and Fremantle, look forward to a terrific Season 12.”

About Mariah Carey:
With a distinct five-octave vocal range, prolific songwriting and producing talent, Carey has defined the modern pop performance. As a singer/songwriter/producer, she has been recognized with multiple Grammy Awards, nine American Music Awards, Billboard’s Artist of the Decade Award, the World Music Award for World’s Best Selling Female Artist of the Millennium and BMI’s Icon Award, to name a few. She has two consecutive and unparalleled Billboard Song of the Decade titles: “One Sweet Day” (with Boyz II Men); and “We Belong Together,” further marking her massive presence on the charts since her 1990 song debut “Vision of Love.” Mariah became the second artist in history and the first female performer to have a song debut at No. 1 with “Fantasy” (1995), the groundbreaking collaboration with O.D.B. of the innovative rap group Wu-Tang Clan. Carey’s original holiday classic, “All I Want For Christmas Is You,” redefined its place in pop culture as one of the greatest holiday hits of all time when it reached No. 1 on the Billboard charts in 2011, 17 years after its debut. Carey’s influential and stellar contribution to the music industry spans multiple genres and is showcased through a multifaceted hit catalog as well as a long list of diverse collaborations.

Carey’s ongoing impact transcends the music industry and has left an indelible imprint upon the world at large. She recently made a substantial mark in film with her critically acclaimed role as a social worker in “Precious,” the 2009 film based on the novel “Push,” by Sapphire. A Congressional Award recipient, Carey has generously donated her time and energy to a range of domestic and international philanthropic causes near to her heart, including The Fresh Air Fund/Camp Mariah (a retreat where inner-city children explore career development), Save the Music Foundation and Make-a-Wish Foundation, among several others.

Carey is currently in the studio, writing, recording and executive-producing her next album for Island Def Jam Music Group, with the lead single “Triumphant.”

About Randy Jackson:
A music industry veteran of more than 20 years and a Grammy Award-winning producer, Randy Jackson began playing bass guitar at age 13 and got his big break when he joined the band Journey. A prolific producer, Jackson spent eight years as Vice President of A&R at Columbia Records, followed by four years as Senior Vice President of A&R at MCA Records. However, it was AMERICAN IDOL that propelled Jackson into the mainstream.

Jackson has since expanded into television production, setting up his Dream Merchant 21 Entertainment banner at Warner Horizon Television and launching the hit reality-competition series “Randy Jackson Presents: America’s Best Dance Crew.”

While working on more than 1,000 gold and multi-platinum albums, which have sold more than 200 million albums worldwide, Jackson’s amazing talent, vast studio knowledge, performing, touring and record company acumen have made him one of today’s most coveted music industry experts.

In 2006, Jackson executive-produced and performed on the legendary Sam Moore’s Grammy-nominated album “Overnight Sensational.” Jackson also teamed with country music superstar Travis Tritt, and most recently, he brought together an eclectic mix of artists on “Randy Jackson’s Music Club, Vol. 1,” the first release from his Dream Merchant 21 record label.

Also a published author, Jackson has penned two books: “What’s Up, Dawg? How to Become a Superstar In The Music Business” and “Body With Soul: Steady Your Sugar, Cut Your Cholesterol and Get a Jump on Your Best Health.”

About Nicki Minaj:
Nicki Minaj is a Trinidadian-born American rapper, singer, songwriter and voice actress. Known for her underground mix-tape presence, Minaj garnered the attention of Lil Wayne, who signed her to his record label, Cash Money. She immediately rose to prominence when she released her debut album, “Pink Friday,” in November 2010. It quickly became a commercial success, peaking at No. 1 on the U.S. Billboard 200 and was certified platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America(RIAA) a month after its release. She simultaneously became the featured “It” girl on a string of high-profile singles from artists such as Madonna, Mariah Carey, Jay-Z, Kanye West, Eminem, Rihanna, Lil Wayne, Drake, Britney Spears, Christina Aguilera, Usher, Ludacris, Justin Bieber, Trey Songz and Alicia Keys. Minaj also has become the first female solo artist to have seven singles on the BillboardHot 100 at the same time. Her seventh single, “Super Bass,” has since been certified quadruple-platinum by the RIAA and has sold more than four million copies, becoming one of the best-selling singles in the United States.

Minaj released her second studio album, “Pink Friday: Roman Reloaded,” in April 2012, which topped charts internationally, and spawned the Top 10 singles “Starships” and “Pound the Alarm.” Since then, the album has sold one million copies worldwide, and has become one of the best-selling albums of 2012, according to Nielsen SoundScan. At the 2012 MTV Video Music Awards, she won Best Female Video for “Starships.” At the 2011 MTV Video Music Awards, she won Best Hip-Hop Video for “Super Bass.”

Nominated for a 2012 Grammy Award in the category of Best New Artist, Minaj’s rapping technique has been hailed by critics for its use of alter-egos, accents (notably, British) and rapid-fire pace. Equally well-known for her unique sense of style, her use of colorful wigs and outlandish costumes ranks her as one of the world’s leading fashion icons. Minaj is in the midst of her Pink Friday: RELOADED Tour.

About Keith Urban:
In 2001, the Country Music Association honored Keith Urban with its Horizon Award, designating him a talented artist with a bright future. He is the first Horizon Award winner in history to go on to win the CMA’s Male Vocalist of the Year, a title he’s captured three times, and the coveted Entertainer of the Year. More than 15 million albums later, Urban is a four-time Grammy Award winner, who has also won a People’s Choice and American Music Award.  He’s

won five Academy of Country Music Awards and had 14 No. 1 songs, including 28 Top 5 hits. In 2012, he became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. His latest CD, “Get Closer,” comes on the heels of his fifth consecutive platinum or multi-platinum release. It has produced three consecutive No. 1 singles: “You Gonna Fly,” “Long Hot Summer” and “Without You.”

In 2009, Urban was named radio’s most-played country artist, thanks to No. 1 hits such as “Sweet Thing,” “You’ll Think Of Me,” “Only You Can Love Me This Way,” “Better Life” and “Days Go By.” In addition, his 2002 smash, “Somebody Like You,” was named the No. 1 Country Song of the Decade by Nielsen BDS (based on radio airplay and audience impressions).

But Urban’s reputation as an elite songwriter, musician, vocalist and virtuoso guitarist is no more evident than when he is onstage. His electrifying concerts have played to sold-out venues in Australia, Germany, England, Canada and the United States, all while receiving high praise from critics. In fact, 2009’s Escape Together World Tour, as well as 2007’s Love, Pain & The Whole Crazy World Tour, were both, according to Pollstar, one of the top-grossing tours for their respective years. Last year, his Get Closer 2011 World Tour solidified Urban as one of the music industry’s best live performers.

AMERICAN IDOL has been the No. 1 entertainment program among Total Viewers for the past nine consecutive seasons. To date, IDOL alums have produced 356 No. 1 Billboard hits and garnered nearly 250 million iTunes downloads. Season 11 winner Phillip Phillips’ first single, “Home,” which was released May 23, has been certified platinum. Last year, Season 10 winner Scotty McCreery released his debut album “Clear As Day,” which dominated the Billboard Country Albums chart and has gone platinum, selling more than one million copies. McCreery is the youngest male artist to ever enter the U.S. albums charts at the No. 1 spot.

AMERICAN IDOL is produced by 19 Entertainment, a division of Core Media Group and FremantleMedia North America, Inc.

Visit www.americanidol.com for exclusive videos, interviews and photos, as well as special behind-the-scenes information and all of your AMERICAN IDOL news. “Like” AMERICAN IDOL on Facebook at www.facebook.com/AmericanIdol. Follow the series on Twitter @AmericanIdol and join the discussion at #idol. Follow host Ryan Seacrest at @RyanSeacrest, and follow the judges:@MariahCarey; @yo_randyjackson; @nickiminaj; and @keithurban.

Source: Fox Broadcasting Company
Photos  credit to:  Warwick Saint / FOX, Mark Cant, Brad Barket/PictureGroup, PictureGroup and Evan Agostini/PictureGroup.
Logo credit to: Fox Broadcasting Company

Editor’s Note: Congratulations to all, but will you watch the show, rumors are that the show is going to end soon because things are not the same when the first original judges .

Kevin Reilly Promoted to Chairman of Entertainment for Fox Broadcasting Company (FOX)

On Monday, August 20, 2012 FOX announced that Kevin Reilly has been promoted to Chairman of Entertainment for Fox Broadcasting Company (FOX), it was announced by Peter Rice, Chairman and CEO, Fox Networks Group. In his new role, Reilly will oversee all programming, scheduling, marketing, research, digital and business affairs at the network.

“Kevin is a uniquely gifted executive with the strong strategic vision and creative instincts to ensure that FOX continues to drive the future of our industry,” said Rice. “We are incredibly fortunate to have him here and thrilled he will be with us for many more years.”

Over the course of Reilly’s tenure, FOX has extended its reign as the No. 1 network among Adults 18-49 for a record eight consecutive seasons and has repeatedly dominated among the young Adults 18-34 and Teen demographics. Under his leadership, the network launched Emmy Award-nominated and Golden Globe Award-winning pop culture phenomenon GLEE, and most recently introduced NEW GIRL, the network’s highest-rated sitcom in 10 years, as well as THE X FACTOR, last season’s No. 1 new unscripted series.

Reilly has also bolstered FOX’s leadership and investment in digital and social media, and was the architect behind the recently launched Animation Domination HD – an independent production subsidiary now ramping up production to generate alternative animation for digital channels and a late-night block on FOX.

“I am grateful to Peter for extending my role at FOX where I’m inspired every day by the incredible leadership of Joe Earley, Mike Darnell and our entire team at the network – as well as the leadership above us at News Corporation,” said Reilly. “This is a transformative time in our industry – one that presents huge opportunities – and we intend for FOX, and all of our programming, to remain the gold standard for innovation.”

Throughout his career, Reilly has distinguished himself as one of television’s most influential and forward-thinking leaders. Prior to joining FOX in 2007, Reilly served as President of Entertainment at NBC, where he introduced popular hits such as “The Office,” “The Biggest Loser,” “Heroes,” “Friday Night Lights” and the multi-award-winning Tina Fey sitcom, “30 Rock.” Reilly joined NBC from FX, where he served as President of Entertainment and was instrumental in successfully transforming it from a fledgling cable network into a profitable creative powerhouse. At FX, Reilly re-defined the basic cable business by branding the network with an aggressive slate of original quality programs, including seminal series “The Shield” and “Nip/Tuck.”  Within a year of Reilly’s arrival, FX made cable history when “The Shield” broke cable ratings records and went on to receive a Golden Globe Award for Best Drama Series (2002) and an Emmy Award for lead actor Michael Chiklis (2002) – both firsts for basic cable.

Prior to joining FX, Mr. Reilly was President of Brillstein-Grey Entertainment. He joined Brillstein-Grey in 1994 and was responsible for shepherding the pilot for the landmark series “The Sopranos” – one of the most successful and critically acclaimed shows in television history – and the NBC hit comedies “Just Shoot Me” and “NewsRadio.”

Early in his career, Reilly held a variety of positions at NBC Entertainment, where he had a hand in the development of distinctive and groundbreaking hits, including the pilots for “ER,” “Homicide: Life on the Street” and “Law & Order.”

About Fox Networks Group:
Fox Networks Group is a primary operating unit of News Corporation (NASDAQ:NWS) and consists of Fox Broadcasting Company (FOX), FOX Sports Media Group, the company’s national and regional cable programming services, FOX International Channels and Fox Networks Engineering & Operations. These units produce, program and transmit much of America’s most popular entertainment, sports and information content via more than 40 owned-and-operated TV networks, video on demand and other media platforms. FOX is America’s most popular network; Fox Networks Group cable channels span FX, National Geographic Channel, Nat Geo WILD, Nat Geo Mundo, Fox Movie Channel, FUEL TV, FSN and 21 regional cable sports networks, SPEED, SPEED2, FOX Soccer Channel, FOX Soccer Plus, FOX College Sports, FOX Deportes, Utilisima, Baby TV, BTN (co-venture with the Big Ten Conference), BTN2Go; and FOX International Channels featuring U.S. Spanish-language broadcast net MundoFox, in addition to more than 350 networks delivered in 35 languages across Latin America, Europe, Asia and Africa. The division also includes Fox Sports Enterprises, which manages interests in sports franchises and leading statistical information provider STATS, LLC.

Source: Fox Broadcasting Company and Fox Networks Group
Photo credit to: Jill Greenberg/FOX

Platinum-Selling Global Megastar Mariah Carey Joins “American Idol” as new Judge

On Monday, July 23, 2012 Fox announced that Mariah Carey, one of the best-selling female recording artists of all time, has joined AMERICAN IDOL as a new judge. A five-time Grammy Award-winning global superstar with more than 200 million records sold worldwide and more No. 1 songs than any solo artist in history, her 18 Billboard No. 1 singles (17 of which Carey wrote) rival all but The Beatles. Carey joins the judges’ panel when AMERICAN IDOL returns in January 2013 on FOX.

“As a singer, songwriter and producer, it’s going to be fun and rewarding to help find new talent and give back with AMERICAN IDOL,” said Mariah Carey. “I’m currently in the studio working on my new album and its first single, ‘Triumphant,’ which will be out early next month. I can’t wait to channel my creative energy as a part of this show which is a massive global phenomenon.”

“We are proud to have one of the world’s greatest-ever female singers join our show,” said IDOL creator and executive producer Simon Fuller. “Mariah defines the word ‘Idol’ and will inspire every singer that has the honor of performing in front of her.”

“Mariah Carey is a global icon whose list of musical accomplishments is unprecedented,” said Cecile Frot-Coutaz, CEO, FremantleMedia. “Having sold more than 200 million records worldwide, she’s a true artist, ideally suited to identify and nurture AMERICAN IDOL’s next great music superstars. We warmly welcome her to the IDOL family.”

“Mariah Carey is the real deal. Not only is she one of the best-selling artists and performers on the planet and one of the world’s most gifted vocalists, she also is a successful songwriter, record producer and actress,” said Mike Darnell, President of Alternative Entertainment, Fox Broadcasting Company. “She has a deep knowledge of music and a career insight that will make her a really amazing asset to our judges’ table and to our contestants. It’s the dream of almost everyone who auditions for IDOL to sing like Mariah and we couldn’t be happier to have her be part of the show.”

With a distinct five-octave vocal range, prolific songwriting and producing talent, Carey has defined the modern pop performance. As a singer/songwriter/producer, she has been recognized with five Grammy Awards, nine American Music Awards, Billboard’s Artist of the Decade Award, the World Music Award for World’s Best Selling Female Artist of the Millennium and BMI’s Icon Award, to name a few. She has two consecutive and unparalleled Billboard Song of the Decade titles: “One Sweet Day” (with Boyz II Men); and “We Belong Together,” further marking her massive presence on the charts since her 1990 song debut “Vision of Love.” Mariah became the second artist in history and the first female performer to have a song debut at No. 1 with “Fantasy” (1995), the groundbreaking collaboration with O.D.B. of the innovative rap group Wu-Tang Clan. Carey’s original holiday classic, “All I Want For Christmas is You,” redefined its place in pop culture as one of the greatest holiday hits of all time when it reached

No. 1 on the Billboard charts in 2011, 17 years after its debut. Carey’s influential and stellar contribution to the music industry spans multiple genres and is showcased through a multifaceted hit catalogue as well as a long list of diverse collaborations.

Carey’s ongoing impact transcends the music industry and has left an indelible imprint upon the world at large. She recently made a substantial mark in film with her critically acclaimed role as a social worker in “Precious,” the 2009 film based on the novel “Push,” by Sapphire. A Congressional Award recipient, Carey has generously donated her time and energy to a range of domestic and international philanthropic causes near to her heart, including The Fresh Air Fund/Camp Mariah (a retreat where inner-city children explore career development), Save the Music Foundation and Make-a-Wish Foundation, among several others.

Carey is currently in the studio, writing, recording and executive-producing her next album for Island Def Jam Music Group, with the lead single “Triumphant.”

AMERICAN IDOL has been the No. 1 entertainment program among Total Viewers for the past nine consecutive seasons. To date, IDOL alums have produced 349 No. 1 Billboard hits and garnered nearly 250 million iTunes downloads. Last year, Season 10 winner Scotty McCreery released his debut album “Clear As Day,” which dominated the Billboard Country Albums chart and has gone platinum, selling more than one million copies. Season 11 winner Phillip Phillips’ first single, “Home,” which was released May 23, has been certified gold.

AMERICAN IDOL is produced by 19 Entertainment, a division of CKX, Inc. and FremantleMedia North America, Inc.

Visit www.americanidol.com for exclusive videos, interviews and photos, as well as special behind-the-scenes information and all of your AMERICAN IDOL news. “Like” AMERICAN IDOL on Facebook at www.facebook.com/AmericanIdol. Follow the series on Twitter @AmericanIdol and join the discussion at #idol.

Photo credit to: Mark Cant.
Source: Fox Broadcasting Company

BREAKING NEWS: Steven Tyler Quits as Judge of American Idol on broadcast on FOX

On Thursday, July 12, 2012, Fox announced that Steven Tyler has decided to depart his role as a judge on AMERICAN IDOL. Tyler served as a judge during the 10^th and 11^th seasons of IDOL.

“After some long…hard…thoughts…I’ve decided it’s time for me to let go of my mistress ‘American Idol’before she boils my rabbit,” said Tyler. “I strayed from my first love, AEROSMITH, and I’m back – but instead of begging on my hands and knees, I’ve got two fists in the air and I’m kicking the door open with my band. The next few years are going to be dedicated to kicking some serious ass – the ultimate in auditory takeover…On Nov. 6, we are unleashing our new album, Music from Another Dimension on the Earth, Moon, Mars, and way beyond the stars…IDOL was over-the-top fun, and I loved every minute of it…Now it’s time to bring Rock Back. ERMAHGERD.”

“It’s been a tremendous honor to have Steven – one of the most prolific artists in the world – on AMERICAN IDOL for the past two seasons,” said Mike Darnell, President of Alternative Entertainment, Fox Broadcasting Company.  “He’s been a terrific judge, a true friend and great mentor to everyone involved with the show, and we know he’ll continue to be a huge inspiration to IDOL hopefuls for years to come. We are very sad that Steven has chosen to focus more on his music, but we always knew when we hired a rock ’n’ roll legend, he would go back to the music.  We all wish him all the best and would love to have him back on the show anytime.”

“Steven Tyler is a real ‘Idol,’ a rock legend. If you had told me 10 years ago he would be a judge on AMERICAN IDOL, I would have thought it impossible,” stated IDOL creator and executive producer Simon Fuller. “The fact that this became a reality and we had the pleasure of him gracing our stage for two seasons makes me very proud. I completely understand his desire to get back to his life as the singer in America’s greatest-ever rock band. AMERICAN IDOL will miss him!”

“We’re all very thankful and privileged that Steven joined AMERICAN IDOL two years ago,” said Cecile Frot-Coutaz, CEO, FremantleMedia. “A true music icon, he not only brought rock ’n’ roll to the show, but also his exceptional taste in spotting and nurturing undiscovered talent. We will sincerely miss his poetic phrases, his remarkable creativity and his unique spirit. We’re sad about his departure from the show, but understand his decision to return to music full-time and hope he’ll be back to grace the AMERICAN IDOL stage in seasons to come.”

AMERICAN IDOL is produced by 19 Entertainment, a division of CKX, Inc. and FremantleMedia North America, Inc.

Photo credit to: Michael Becker /FOX.
Source: Fox Broadcasting Company

Television and Radio Personality Ryan Seacrest to Return as Host of American Idol Season 12

On Monday, April 23, 2012 FOX announced that Emmy® Award-nominated Ryan Seacrest will continue as host of AMERICAN IDOL, broadcast television’s No. 1 show. Seacrest has served as host of AMERICAN IDOL since its debut on June 11, 2002. Over the past decade, he has guided the IDOL contestants and judges through each season’s incredible journey, from the first tickets to Hollywood to every star-studded finale. Seacrest has introduced every guest performer, played referee with the judges and was the first to announce and congratulate each of the winners.

“For the last 11 seasons, I’ve had the privilege to be a part of one of television’s most iconic shows. It’s been a wild ride, and I’m excited for my journey with AMERICAN IDOL to continue,” Seacrest said. “The legions of fans, amazingly talented contestants, judges, and producers, along with the hard working IDOL crew, impress me every time we go on air and make hosting the show a dream job. I especially appreciate the support and confidence of Peter Rice, Mike Darnell and the entire FOX team – as well as the support of everyone at FremantleMedia North America – and I look forward to continuing our partnership.”

“Ryan is one of a kind,” added Mike Darnell, President of Alternative Entertainment, Fox Broadcasting Company. “His ability to engage the viewers, keep the contestants at ease during intense moments and adapt to any situation, especially during the live shows, solidifies him as the absolute best in the business. He is an integral part of why AMERICAN IDOL is a true phenomenon, and we can’t imagine doing this show without him.”

“I am thrilled that Ryan will continue to be the face of AMERICAN IDOL. He runs the show with such expertise, warmth and charm that he makes one of the hardest jobs in television look easy,” noted Cecile Frot-Coutaz, CEO, FremantleMedia North America. “He is one of the best in the business and we are lucky to have him.”

“Ryan has been with AMERICAN IDOL from the very first day. I can’t imagine the show without him,” stated creator and executive producer Simon Fuller. “He is the consummate host and an exemplary professional. Having Ryan continue to be a part of the AMERICAN IDOL family is great news for everyone.”

AMERICAN IDOL is produced by 19 Entertainment, a division of CKX, Inc. and FremantleMedia North America, Inc. The series is created and executive-produced by Simon Fuller, CEO, XIX Entertainment, and executive-produced by Cecile Frot-Coutaz, CEO, FremantleMedia North America, Inc.; Ken Warwick, Executive Producer, FremantleMedia North America, Inc.; and Nigel Lythgoe, CEO, Nigel Lythgoe Productions.

About Ryan Seacrest:
With his thriving broadcasting career and multiple ventures, Ryan Seacrest is at the forefront of the media and entertainment industry. While hosting and producing multiple television and radio programs, building his Ryan Seacrest Productions banner (RSP) into a leading entertainment production company, and managing a myriad of media investments and brand ventures, Seacrest is redefining what it means to be a successful Hollywood entrepreneur.

Seacrest holds preeminent positions in broadcast television, nationally syndicated radio, local radio and cable as both a producer and on-air host. He is celebrated internationally as host of the top-rated primetime talent showcase AMERICAN IDOL, and hosts and produces “E! News” and its red carpet awards show coverage. He also serves as an executive producer and co-host of “Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve with Ryan Seacrest.” He has been nominated for an Emmy Award in the “Outstanding Host for a Reality or Reality-Competition Program” category for his work on AMERICAN IDOL, and has also hosted the live network broadcast of the Emmy Awards show. On radio, Seacrest is host of “On Air with Ryan Seacrest,” his market-topping No. 1 nationally syndicated Los Angeles morning drive-time radio show for Clear Channel’s 102.7 KIIS-FM, as well as a nationally-syndicated Top 40 radio show.

In 2006, Seacrest launched Ryan Seacrest Productions (RSP), which has since become a television production powerhouse. RSP produces the hit series “Keeping Up with the Kardashians,” one of cable’s highest-rated shows, and the spin-offs “Khloe and Lamar,” “Kourtney and Kim Take New York” and “Kourtney and Khloe Take Miami.” RSP also produced the Emmy Award-winning reality series “Jamie Oliver’s Food Revolution.” RSP recently produced two new reality series: “Melissa and Tye” and “Shahs of Sunset.” In January 2012, Clear Channel acquired a minority stake in RSP.

In early 2012, Seacrest entered into a joint venture through a holding company, Ryan Seacrest Media, along with HDNet, AEG, and Creative Artists Agency (CAA) to rebrand HDNet/HDNet Canada and launch AXS TV (pronounced: access). AXS TV will debut this summer, providing viewers with exclusive behind-the-scenes access to live concerts and music festivals, red carpet premieres, award shows, parties, pop culture events, and in-depth interviews with the people and artists who make live entertainment so uniquely fascinating.

Seacrest also has extensive deals with brand heavyweights Proctor & Gamble, Coca-Cola and Microsoft, and recently announced a strategic marketing and technology alliance with Eventful, Inc.

Seacrest, along with his family, is also committed to the Ryan Seacrest Foundation (RSF), a non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for seriously ill and injured children through unique programs that utilize multimedia and interactive platforms. RSF is building broadcast media centers within hospitals for children to explore the creative realms of radio, television and new media. RSF has launched two centers: Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta at Egleston and Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.

Originally from Atlanta, GA, Seacrest’s professional career in broadcasting began at the age of 16 when he applied for an internship at one of Atlanta’s top radio stations, WSTR-STAR 94. While working at STAR 94 he finished high school and went on to attend the University of Georgia where he majored in journalism. Seacrest currently resides in Los Angeles, CA.

Source: FOX Broadcasting 
Photo credit to: Warwick Saint/ FOX

Paula Abdul Joins Simon Cowell on THE X FACTOR as Judge Panel

On Sunday, May 8, 2011 Fox.com reported that America’s sweetheart, world-renowned choreographer and pop icon Paula Abdul will join Cheryl Cole, Antonio “L.A.” Reid and Simon Cowell as a judge on THE X FACTOR, the highly anticipated singing competition series debuting this fall. Abdul, who sat alongside Cowell for eight seasons as a judge on AMERICAN IDOL, has worldwide album sales exceeding 50 million records, two No. 1 albums, six No. 1 singles, a Grammy Award, seven MTV Awards, two Emmy Awards, two People’s Choice Awards and two Kids’ Choice Awards. Abdul will join Cole, Cowell, and Reid as they travel to THE X FACTOR audition cities searching for the next global superstar or breakout music group.


“This show would never have been the same without Paula and I can’t believe I am saying this – I have missed her a lot, and I am thrilled she’s on the show,” said Simon Cowell.

“I am excited beyond words to be a part of THE X FACTOR. I couldn’t be happier to bring my love for cultivating talent and performance to such a wildly anticipated show,” said Paula Abdul. “I’m looking forward to being back with the FOX family and know that it will be an extraordinary journey — we’re going to have a blast. I’m also delighted and grateful to be sitting next to Simon again…but you might want to check back with me in a week or two!”

“Paula is not only the lovely, nurturing person that America fell in love with, but she’s also one of the fiercest competitors I’ve ever seen — which makes her a perfect fit to judge THE X FACTOR,” said Mike Darnell, President of Alternative Entertainment, Fox Broadcasting Company. “Paula and Simon have undeniable chemistry, and together with L.A. Reid and Cheryl Cole, I think we’ve put together an incredibly entertaining judges’ panel.”

“I’m thrilled to be working with Paula again,” says executive producer Cecile Frot-Coutaz. “A consummate entertainer in her own right, she has an extraordinary talent and generosity for nurturing performers — and her chemistry with Simon Cowell is like no other. I especially look forward to seeing her signature sensibilities in action during our mentoring rounds!”

Auditions have been held in Los Angeles, Miami, Newark, Seattle and Chicago. Dallas auditions take place on May 26. In addition to the open auditions, THE X FACTOR has audition booths in six more cities open through May 8.

During the open auditions, The X Factor Hotline (1-855-345-5678) will be updated with relevant audition details.


About Paula Abdul:
Paula Julie Abdul ( /ˈæbduːl/; born June 19, 1962)^[2] is an American recording artist, dancer,choreographer, actress and television personality.

In the 1980s, Abdul rose from cheerleader for the Los Angeles Lakers to highly sought-after choreographer at the height of the music video era before scoring a string of pop music-R&B hits in the late-1980s and early-1990s. Her six number one singles on the Billboard Hot 100 tie her for fifth among the female solo performers who have reached #1 there.^[3] She won a Grammy for “Best Music Video – Short Form” for “Opposites Attract” and twice won the “Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Choreography“.

After her initial period of success, she suffered a series of setbacks in her professional and personal life, until she found renewed fame and success in the 2000s as a judge on the television series, American Idol, for eight years, before departing from the show. Abdul had moved on to another television series, CBS‘s Live to Dance, which debuted in January 2011. The series has since been canceled. Following her judging role in Live to Dance, Abdul moved to theAmerican version of The X Factor with her former American Idol co-judge Simon Cowell which will premiere in September 2011.^[4] She is said to be working on a new album.^[5][6]

Sources: Fox.com & Wikipedia

Editor’s Note: Congratulations to Paula Abdul for taking a new job with The X Factor and for sure we will watch FOX Networks to see her again and Welcome back to The Fox Family.

Question? Will you watch The X Factor now the Paula Abdul is back on the FOX Networks?