American Idol on ABC has wrapped up the pre-recorded section of its season and normally would be moving to Hollywood for the live portion of the contest. These being unprecedented times American Idol is pivoting to a new all-remote format.
In the April 26 episode, the Top 20 perform for a spot in the Top 10. For the first time ever, “American Idol” reaches audiences in an all-new way, as judges Katy Perry, Luke Bryan, Lionel Richie, host Ryan Seacrest, in-house mentor Bobby Bones and the Top 20 contestants participate from different locations.
Producers of the show have been hard at work figuring out how this all will work. It won’t be live as broadcast, but will be live to tape allowing show producers to produce a broadcast ready production that doesn’t have to worry about someone’s wifi going out in the middle of a show being watched by millions.
We know that Seacrest will host from his own home because he shared a peek at a piece of “American Idol” history that he’s had stored in his garage – the original “Idol” judges desk from the first season on Fox.
It’s great that he had the desk hidden away at home. Kinda like a Disney fan who buys old attraction vehicles (I’m looking at you John Stamos).
The top 20 Idol hopefuls will be continuing their journeys remotely, filming their performances on iPhones, and singing their hearts out for a chance to win America’s vote and ultimately the coveted season three crown. Show producers sent each contestant a new iPhone and a lighting kit to help them get the best out of each performance.
I have a feeling this will play very well for today’s YouTube generation. Performers who already had experience recording for the small screen will have an advantage.
Will you be tuning in to “American Idol” on Sunday, April 26 at 8pm EDT on ABC? Let us know your favorite American Idol in the comments below!