American Idol 8 News (Page 5)

According to an internal Fox memo posted online, American Idol will have several changes to its format when it debuts next month.

The memo reveals the following:

• For its semifinal round, the eighth season will have 36 contestants instead of 24;
• The audition episodes will be reduced, while the pre-semifinal Hollywood round episodes will be increased;
• The wild card round will return, giving eliminated contestants the chance to compete for one of the top 12 finalist spots;
• The show's focus on bad auditions will be minimized;
• And “Idol Gives Back,” the show's charity telethon, will not air this year due to the economy.

David Cook is featured in the following preview for season eight of American Idol.

The premiere we've all been waiting for airs on January 13.

Naturally, we can't for for the eighth season of American Idol to debut in January.

But the following commercial simply has us more excited than ever for the series to return.

In it, a bikini-clad singer, who lacks vocal chops according to Paula Abdul and Kara Dioguardi, gets her ticket to Hollywood. Check out Simon's grin at the conclusion of the clip:

Mark your calender, readers!

American Idol will premiere its eighth season with a two-night, four-hour premiere on January 13 and 14!