9 minutes ago 2009-11-22T14:12:39-08:00
Simon, Kara, Paula and Randy hit the red carpet, August 2008Getty ImagesAccess Hollywood
LOS ANGELES, Calif. -- "American Idol" is coming back in January for its eighth season, but the show is bringing some changes with it.
In a memo from FOX Network Program Executive Council, leaked on the Internet and published on mjsbigblog.com, "Idol" is expanding.
For starters, the month-long period where "Idol" usually features the best and most bizarre auditions from around the country have been shortened to just three weeks, followed by two weeks of the show's famous Hollywood round, according to the memo.
"Promotional thrust will have fewer bad singers and more 'aspirational' singers," the memo read.
But the Hollywood round won't just whittle the contenders down to a slim 24. Instead, 36 contestants will get a shot at the top prize. They will however, be reduced over time to a Top 12.
One of the most sought-after rounds in "Idol" history is coming back as part of the changes -- the wild card round, according to the memo.
Fox's memo announced that there would be more 2-hour episodes, but ratings juggernaut "Idol Gives Back," will not happen in 2009.
VIEW THE PHOTOS: Former 'American Idols'
While Fox declined to comment on the leak, a press conference call about "Idol's" new season will happen on Monday.
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comments
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SamSick of this show, they need to go off the air!report abuseposted December 15, 2008 9:59 AM PST
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Jklre LLOL.... search " My Discount Bag " on google to get the same designer bags with Karolina. " My Discount Bag " is just for fashion ladies, wow! Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Fendi, Coach, Miu Miu, Dior, Hermes, Chloe, Dolce & Gabbana Women's shoes ***u g g b a r g a i n ***report abuseposted December 15, 2008 9:27 AM PST
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Jklre LLOL.... search " My Discount Bag " on google to get the same designer bags with Karolina. " My Discount Bag " is just for fashion ladies, wow! Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Fendi, Coach, Miu Miu, Dior, Hermes, Chloe, Dolce & Gabbana Women's shoes ***u g g b a r g a i n ***report abuseposted December 15, 2008 9:26 AM PST
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AshleyWhy would they ax the most important episode? IGB is the best episode besides the crazy auditions. Not even the finales are that good.report abuseposted December 15, 2008 8:31 AM PST
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LAURAI have been watching idol since season 1. I like it the way its and don't know why they have to start making changes. As for idol gives back, I've always donated to it and can't believe they're going to stop doing it. I think it's the best thing Idol has ever done. I've lost all respect for the network and don' t know if I'll be watreport abuseposted December 14, 2008 9:26 PM PST
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Popa PI really like American Idol. I am happily awaiting start day. I have watched all 7 of A I (American Idol) and this one may be the best yet. I also hope that this will be the best, and a continuing of many more!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!report abuseposted December 14, 2008 9:06 PM PST
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Ra Helloh word.report abuseposted December 14, 2008 7:27 PM PST
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1streport abuseposted December 14, 2008 7:05 PM PST
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mandyI think they should continue with idol gives back . they are alot of people in need. I think they did this bc they want to save money... who cares... give it to people who need the most....report abuseposted December 14, 2008 6:22 PM PST
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JennaNO IDOL GIVES BACK! what is this?report abuseposted December 14, 2008 6:01 PM PST
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