Lionel Richie Joins ‘American Idol’ As Judge With Katy Perry, Luke Bryan

The judges’ table in “American Idol” reboot is finally complete! Grammy Award-winning musician Lionel Richie has just been tapped as third judge of the upcoming ABC reality TV competition.

According to TV Line, Richie will be joining Katy Perry and Luke Bryan in the panel. The “Endless Love” singer released a statement expressing his excitement over his upcoming venture. “I am very excited to be joining Katy, Luke and Ryan on ‘American Idol.’ As a singer, songwriter and producer, I feel I can bring a great deal of experience to the table. It’s going to be so much fun!” he said.

The “American Idol” reboot won’t premiere until March 2018, but the three judges will be making their debut on “Good Morning America” on Oct. 4. The reboot, which is being classified as “American Idol” Season 16, will also see the return of host Ryan Seacrest. In July, the radio personality made the announcement during his show, “Live With Kelly and Ryan.”

“It’s genuinely hard to put into words what ‘American Idol’ means to me. I’m so grateful for the show and all the career and life opportunities it’s allowed me to experience. It’s been an incredible journey from day one. To be asked to return this year, as my new home at ABC, is an honor, if not a bit surreal. I believe ABC is the perfect home for ‘Idol,’ and I’ve every confidence the show’s legions of fans will love it – especially ‘Idol’s’ best traditions of showcasing heartwarming stories, remarkable talent discovery, and, best of all, making dreams come true,” Seacrest said in a statement.

After announcing his return, Perry claimed that the reboot is slowly coming together. She described herself as spicy and called Seacrest “seasoned.”

Last week, reports already swirled that Bryan has been cast as second judge in the reboot. However, he and his rep did not confirm the rumors. According to Variety, a third judge will be announced in the coming months, but Richie already signed a deal with the network on Friday.

Open call auditions for “American Idol” reboot have been ongoing since August. Those who will make it past this round will get the chance to meet Richie, Bryan and Perry in the second audition.