‘American Idol' Announces Season 8 Debut Date

American Idol” has announced it will return for Season 8, starting January 13, 2009.

The popular reality singing competition will premiere with two two-hour shows on Januarry 13 and 14.

VIEW THE PHOTOS: Former ‘American Idols’

Auditions for the show began this past summer in cities including Louisville, Phoenix, Salt Lake City, Kansas City, Jacksonville, East Rutherford and San Juan, Puerto Rico.

As previously reported on AccessHollywood.com, Season 8 of “Idol” features the addition of a new judge – Grammy-nominated songwriter Kara DioGuardi.

VIEW THE PHOTOS: ‘American Idol’ Season 7 Finale

“We are turning the heat up on ‘Idol’ this year and are thrilled to welcome Kara to the judges’ table,” creator and executive producer Simon Fuller previously said in a statement released to Access. “She is a smart, sassy lady, and one of America’s most successful songwriters. We know she will bring a new level of energy and excitement to the show.”

Related Content from AccessHollywood.com:
VIEW THE PHOTOS: Clay Aiken
PLAY IT NOW: Access Search Engine: David Cook’s “Light On” Music Video (Nov. 3, 2008)
PLAY IT NOW: ‘American Idol’ Welcomes New Judge Kara DioGuardi

MORE ACCESS ON THESE TOPICS: American Idol - Reality TV

Copyright NBCAH - Access Hollywood
Contact Us