It’s back! ABC has signed a deal to revive American Idol in March 2018, TMZ reports.
According to the outlet, the deal was officially closed on Friday, May 5, after several networks made offers to reboot the singing competition. ABC and production companies FremantleMedia and Core Media Group reportedly want Ryan Seacrest to return as the host of the show, which originally aired on Fox from 2002 to 2016.
Earlier this week, Seacrest, 42, was announced as Kelly Ripa‘s new cohost on ABC’s morning show Live! He relocated to New York City for the gig. If he returns to Idol, which films in Hollywood, he would likely have to travel from coast to coast several times a week.
A source tells Us Weekly that Seacrest’s main priority is Live!, in addition to his work with iHeartRadio and his syndicated radio show. “That said, Ryan has a lot of affection for Idol given the significance to his career, and it taps into the things he loves — a live show, pop music, discovering new talent, etc.,” the insider adds. “There have been no formal discussions with Ryan about his involvement but he may well be open to it … in the right capacity and if it fits in with his other commitments.”
TMZ reports that ABC is expected to announce the return of Idol later this month at the Upfronts presentation in New York. Sources previously told Variety that Idol may air on Sunday nights.
Us Weekly has reached out to ABC and Seacrest’s rep for comment.
