American Idol returns to FOX Jan. 15, and host Ryan Seacrest says it'll be a rockin' seventh season.
WHAT'LL BE DIFFERENT? You'll see us go back to our roots. Last year we had a lot of guests on the show, a lot of mentors. We're going to focus more on the kids—where they came from, the background, so you really get a chance to connect and get to know the individual. We also have more rockers this year.
AND FEWER SANJAYAS? I think there were so many characters last time—it was cute for a while, but this time they're just genuine, passionate people who have normal jobs.
DO YOU STILL HAVE GUYS' NIGHT OUT WITH RANDY AND SIMON? We did it on the road a few times. We'll finish auditions and go out for dinner. Paula comes too—she's welcome to come any time.
Your Reaction
