Fox network has recently revealed their plans for the eighth season of the televised contest “American Idol,” which is scheduled to air on January 13, bringing forth some changes to the popular show.

First of all, the Hollywood round will be extended in order to give contestants more time to make proof of their talent and maybe score a position among the finalists. The round is set to begin on February 3 and it will last over a period of four weeks, with the final 36 contestants being scheduled to be announced on February 11, while the audience will be able to vote starting February 17.

Secondly, the new season will also bring a fourth judge to the panel comprising Randy Jackson, Paula Abdul and Simon Cowell, songwriter Kara DioGuardi being the one to join the latter three on their quest to finding a superstar among the show’s participants.

On March 5, the „wild card” round is set to be broadcast, followed by the shortlisting of the finalists to only twelve contestants.

The eighth season is set to begin being aired with three weeks of audition episodes from East Rutherford, N.J.,  Jacksonville, Fla., Kansas City, Mo.,  Louisville, Ky., Phoenix,  Salt Lake City,  San Francisco and San Juan, Puerto Rico, executive producer Ken Warwick having stated that the auditions in San Juan had not gone that well.

Another feature that was integral to the first seasons but was afterwards put on the back burner is said to be resumed in January, with more behind-the-scenes drama from the show’s contestants having been announced.