I was first to break the news HERE on 10 December that America Idol will be moving back to M-Net and be seen here a week after it shows in America. M-Net will start showing American Idol from 17 January, super close to episodes going out in America.
Now the Fox Network in America has just issued a press release saying that instead of 36 top candidates, the show will have 24 top candidates. Here is some of what the Fox Network just said:
''The wait is almost over for the return of TV's No. 1 show! American Idol is set to return for its much-anticipated ninth season with extraordinary talent and outrageous new auditions.''
''This season on American Idol, the good, the bad and the awful audition for their shot at stardom. In the audition cities, Ryan Seacrest hosts, and Simon Cowell, Randy Jackson and Kara DioGuardi will be joined by rotating guest judges Victoria Beckham, Mary J. Blige, Kristin Chenoweth, Neil Patrick Harris, Joe Jonas, Avril Lavigne, Katy Perry and Shania Twain.
According to the press release in ''The “Hollywood Round” dreams will come true ''for 24 contestants, as Simon, Randy, Kara and Ellen announce the Top 12 male and Top 12 female semifinalists. It will then be up to America to decide who moves forward in the competition.''