Luke Bryan Cast As Second ‘American Idol’ Reboot Judge Alongside Katy Perry

Country singer Luke Bryan has just been tapped as judge in the upcoming “American Idol” reboot.

According to Variety, Bryan will be joining Katy Perry in the panel after she signed a deal with ABC in May. A third judge will also be announced in the coming months. The publication also noted that “American Idol” will stick to its three-person panel instead of four. As of late, Bryan has not yet confirmed his involvement in the reboot.

In July, there were rumors that Charlie Puth or Keith Urban could also serve as judge in the reality TV competition.

The “American Idol” reboot will premiere in March 2018. Ryan Seacrest will also return as host of the show. Seacrest announced his return to the franchise in July during an episode of “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, at my new home at ABC, is an honor, if not a bit surreal. I believe ABC is the perfect home for ‘Idol,’ and I have 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,” he said at that time.

According to TMZ, Seacrest secured a much lower deal with ABC compared to what he earned when “American Idol” was on Fox. The host agreed to return for the love of the singing reality TV competition than the money. The publication also noted that the people behind “American Idol” reboot are having a tough time securing deals with judges since they are already paying Perry a hefty sum.

Meanwhile, open call auditions have been ongoing since August. Interested applicants will have the chance to perform a song in front of producers, but not the judges. Those who will make it past the first round could meet Bryan and Perry in next week’s auditions.