Luke Bryan, Katy Perry, Lionel Richie and Ryan Seacrest Return to ‘American Idol’ for Season Six on ABC

It was announced today that star-maker competition series “American Idol” is welcoming back Luke Bryan, Katy Perry and Lionel Richie as celebrity judges and Ryan Seacrest as host for its sixth season on ABC airing next spring.  In celebration, five-time Entertainer of the Year Bryan will guest host “Live with Kelly & Ryan” with Seacrest next Monday, August 1. Check local listings for times.

“Idol’s” season six auditions kick off Wednesday, Aug. 3, with the return of “Idol Across America,” the live virtual nationwide search for the next superstar. Auditions take place across all 50 states plus Washington, D.C, and start with the annual First 500 event, where hopefuls can sign up to grab a VIP spot before anyone else. “Idol Across America” offers hopefuls the opportunity to showcase their talents face-to-face with an “American Idol” producer, from anywhere in America, across any official audition date for a chance to proceed to the judge audition round of the competition.

“Idol Across America” auditions will be held Through Aug. 31. For information on how to sign up for “Idol Across America” and a chance to virtually audition in front of an “American Idol” producer, please visit www.americanidol.com/auditions. More details on specific dates, full eligibility requirements, submission forms, terms and conditions are available on the website. Contestants must be at least 15 years old to audition and may do so on any “Idol Across America” date regardless of your location.