Smallscreen - American Idol

Television's No. 1 show, American Idol, returns for its seventh season when it premiered in January.

Hosted by Ryan Seacrest, the hit series empowers viewers to discover America's next solo singing superstar by voting for their favorites to win the coveted American Idol title.

Every year, tens of thousands of hopefuls from across the nation audition for a shot at stardom and a chance to be the next American Idol. The show's judges - Paula Abdul, Simon Cowell and Randy Jackson - winnow down the competitors to a select group of semifinalists who sing their hearts out each week for the studio audience and the television viewers. The judges have their say after every performance, but it's the viewing public that determines who will advance to the next round of the competition and who will go home. Voting via telephone and text messaging begins immediately after each performance show, and the results are announced during the following night's broadcast.

Themes such as country music, hits of the 21st century and Elvis Presley songs add spice to the performance shows, along with appearances and mentoring by legendary artists like Tony Bennett, Jennifer Lopez, Martina McBride and Bon Jovi. These guest performers not only share their expertise with the contestants, they enable audience members to experience a variety of musical styles.

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