It's official! Ryan Seacrest formally announced his participation for the upcoming "American Idol" reboot in 2018. During the Thursday broadcast of "Live with Kelly and Ryan," the TV and radio personality confirmed that he will be back in the singing competition to host its 16th season.
Seacrest rejoins 'American Idol' reboot
"I don't know if you've ever been in a 15-year relationship, and then – for a reason you don't really know – you break up," he said as cited by ET Online.
"And I thought, 'Gosh, it would be great to get back together at some point'."
His announcement was followed by an official statement from ABC which formalized Seacrest's come back to his roots. "We are thrilled to be ushering in this new era of "American Idol" with Ryan at the helm," ABC Entertainment's Channing Dungey wrote.
He went on, "So much of "American Idol's" overwhelming success can be attributed to Ryan, whose larger-than-life personality and laudable dedication to creating quality entertainment have made him a true master of his craft." Seacrest, in the same statement, expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the network and show for giving him another opportunity to host the long-running singing competition.
The 42-year-old personality said he felt honored to be invited to return to the show where he found his breakthrough.
The "Jamie Oliver's Food Revolution" producer even recalled the day he auditioned to be part of "American Idol" which premiered in 2002. Seacrest confessed he was "terrified" that he would mess up the opportunity since he considered himself bad at auditioning. The host even admitted that he was unsure of what to do when the panel of executives gave him a scenario during the audition. But despite doubting his ability to handle the situation, Seacrest nailed the audition and earned the spot to host "American Idol" on Fox.
'American Idol' renewed for 16th season
ABC confirmed that they are bringing back "American Idol" on our televisions back in May.
The revival came in the wake of cancellation rumors due to plummeting ratings and viewership. The singing competition later announced Katy Perry's appointment as one of the judges. The "Swish Swish" singer was previously offered to take part in "The Voice," in which she reportedly turned down.
Perry said she is "honored and thrilled" to be named as the first judge for the "American Idol" reboot. "I'm always listening to new music, and love discovering diamonds in the rough – from mentoring young artists on my label or highlighting new artists on my tours, I want to bring it back to the music," she added as noted by Variety. The singer also celebrated Seacrest's comeback in the singing competition.