'American Idol' Reboot Will Not Happen Without Ryan Seacrest; Kelly Clarkson Out as Judge

“American Idol” has found a new network after being with Fox for an impressive fifteen seasons. It has been officially confirmed that the pioneering singing competition will be returning on ABC after being off the air for 13 months. No one is tied up with the "Idol" name than Ryan Seacrest and its first season winner Kelly Clarkson. It is no wonder then that they are being asked to join the new version.

According to a source close to Fremantle Media, the production company behind “American Idol,” said that a reboot without Ryan Seacrest would be unthinkable. The 42-year old TV and radio personality is considered as the glue that keeps the show together reports ET. Seacrest happens to be Kelly Ripa’s new co-host on the recently renamed “Live With Kelly and Ryan” also on ABC.

The source added that it’s entirely possible to do “American Idol” from New York where Ryan Seacrest tapes “Live” during the week. He is open to the idea of hosting the singing show again but it would be impossible for him to if it stays in Los Angeles. He said that the decision to move “Idol” is not his decision to make.

The same source revealed that there have been no formal discussions yet with Ryan Seacrest about his involvement in the “American Idol” reboot. If it stays in LA, the busy Seacrest will do whatever he can to be connected with the show in whatever capacity.

Meanwhile, Ryan Seacrest commented on reports that Kelly Clarkson is being eyed as a potential judge when “American Idol” returns. He acknowledged that he has heard the rumors and said that Kelly will make a fantastic judge. Ryan added that he thinks the former “Idol” winner is incredible and sincere when she appeared on the last season of the original run. However, it was announced late this week that Clarkson will instead be a "The Voice" Season 14 coach.

According to TMZ, the audition for the new “American Idol” will be based at Disney World. The old show had the cast and crew going from city to city. It is also not known whether the show will air once or twice a week. There are speculations that ABC might consider a once a week format where the results will be revealed the following week.