American Idol is bringing back its Idol Gives Back charitable special on April 21 after a yearlong hiatus.

The special, airing during the top-seven Wednesday results show, will benefit Children's Health Fund, Feeding America, Malaria No More, Save the Children and the United Nations Foundation. More than $140 million was raised in two previous specials.

In addition to the fundraising, the April 21 show also will feature that week's voting results and the elimination of a finalist.

American Idol will return for a ninth season in January with host Ryan Seacrest and judges Simon Cowell, Randy Jackson, Kara DioGuardi and rookie Ellen DeGeneres.

American Idol