Fox’s top-rated talent show “American Idol” will kick off its eighth season in a different format meant to keep the program appealing and fresh. More good singers will be able to make it to the show’s top 12 this season, as 36 aspirants will be selected for February’s semifinals, compared to the 24 candidates who were chosen on Season 7.

In addition, “American Idol,” whose season premiere is scheduled for January 13, will be spiced up by a certain amount of randomness, as the “wild card” round is due to be introduced for the first time since Season 3. Thus, eliminated contestants will have a chance to get back in the game and claim one of the top finalist positions.

All of these changes, as well as the addition of fourth judge Kara DioGuardi to the well-known panel and a second week of the popular Hollywood round, represent the Season 8 “tweaks” for the show, according to executive producer Ken Warwick.

Moreover, the “Idol Gives Back” charity fundraiser will be skipped this season, but is expected to be reprised for the third time during the ninth season of the popular show.

The Hollywood round will also include group numbers again, offering performers the opportunity to play instruments.

Beginning with February 17, six male and six female contenders will sing each week for three weeks, while the top performers from each category in viewer votes will get the chance to reach the finals, along with the second-best competitors, chosen by viewers as well.