American Idol (2002)

A reality TV singing competition, 'American Idol' is one among the longest running singing competitions. It premiered first in 2002 and was produced by Simon Fuller. Airing continuously for 15 seasons, the show was later canceled for two years and in 2018 it returned for season 16 on ABC. With the 17th season premiering on March 3, the series features contestants from the age of 15-28 participate and compete for a chance to win the title. Joining the judging panel this year again are Katy Perry, Lionel Richie, and Luke Bryan. The show is hosted by Ryan Seacrest. Starting off with the auditions, the contestants are then judged and narrowed down to the top 20. The panel of judges then critiques the contestant's performances as they advance to each round. The winner will be decided by America by voting either via their phones, internet or SMS. The winner of the season will receive a recording contract along with the title of American Idol and a grand prize also.

American Idol (2002)

Mom-of-one survived abuse and reached ‘American Idol’ finale — but refused to let trauma define her

‘American Idol’ winner Jamal Roberts announces tour with two major music icons — here’s how to catch it

5 controversial ‘American Idol’ eliminations that broke our hearts — and made us question the voting

‘American Idol’ judges in tears as singer honors late finalist Willie Spence with their shared song

‘American Idol’ judge fuels ‘DWTS’ rumors after surprise dance with fan-favorite contestant Robert Irwin

‘American Idol’ contestant reveals Katy Perry told him leaving show was the ‘best thing’ he ever did

Luke Bryan was a complete 'mess' after this singer's touching 'American Idol' performance – you'll see why

‘American Idol’ winner has one major request for fans — and it's totally reasonable: ‘If you see me...’

'American Idol' fan favorite contestant teases music with Jelly Roll and we're super excited

‘American Idol’ winner reveals heartbreaking reason she’s back to singing on the subway: ‘I have to...’

Homeless contestant brings Jennifer Lopez to tears on 'American Idol' — and earns a golden ticket

Keith Urban left speechless as contestant’s stutter disappears in moving ‘American Idol’ audition

5 months pregnant, this singer auditioned for ‘American Idol’ — and left with a Golden Ticket and a husband

This ‘Reacher’ actor once had a flirty, shirtless audition on ‘American Idol’ — and the judges loved it

‘American Idol’ finalist apologizes to country legend after on-stage blunder — fans rush to defend her

‘American Idol’ fans call for a panel shake-up — and they want this classic trio to return

‘American Idol’ judge couldn’t stop crying after this contestant's moving performance hit too close to home

This ‘American Idol’ contestant crossed the line with judges — and was silently cut from the show

Luke Bryan compared this ‘American Idol’ singer to Johnny Cash — and after hearing his story, we get it

Overconfident ‘American Idol’ contestant leaves judges cringing — and Simon fuming: ‘A terrible...’