By Isa Didio ’18

“You’re going to Hollywood.”

If you’ve ever watched popular American television show “American Idol,” then you know that these iconic words are what contestants wish to hear after their audition. After a two year hiatus, “American Idol” will be returning to its 16th season on ABC.

This season features three new judges, including pop star Katy Perry, R&B icon Lionel Richie and country singer Luke Bryan. Long-time host Ryan Seacrest is the only member of the cast returning for the 15th season. The premiere episode, which debuted on March 11, had ratings similar to the average ratings of American Idol on Fox in 2016, according to Variety.

Carlie Darefsky ’18, who frequently watched previous seasons of American Idol, believes that the new judges should be credited for the popularity of the show.

“I haven’t yet seen a full episode, but I think the judges bring a new look to the show,” Darefsky said. “I’m definitely excited to continue watching.”

While Darefsky and a few other Staples students had positive reviews of the show, USA Today writer Kelly Lawler doesn’t believe that the new show offers anything more than previous seasons.

“It’s not particularly good or particularly bad. It’s just familiar,” Lawler said.

Either way, “American Idol” is back on air and ready to produce a new musical star.