HOLLYWOOD, Calif. — American Idol will have changes beyond just the judges panel in season 10, according to the show’s executive producer Nigel Lythgoe.
For starters, there will be new challenges for the finalists that will include making music videos, promoting themselves, and working on awards show-style performances in an effort to create artists over just a winner.
The producers have also eliminated the round that cuts the field of contestants from 24 to 12. Instead, the show will go straight to a top 12, although it remains unclear whether that group of singers will be chosen by the judges or viewers.
"I didn’t think [the top 24] were very good, I was bored with them by the time they got there," Lythgoe tells TV Guide of previous seasons.
As for the other obvious change, Lythgoe is already singing the praises of new judges Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler.
"They both listen intently, and don’t make glib remarks," he says. "They give honest critiques."
Lythgoe also gave credit to holdover judge Randy Jackson for taking on more of a leadership role to offset Simon Cowell’s departure.
"Randy is pulling his weight," the producer says. "He really has stepped up. He’s essentially come out of himself. He’s enjoying being in that position."
The new season of American Idol premieres Jan. 12 on Fox.
