‘American Idol’ to end after season 15

MANILA, Philippines – Pioneering singing competition American Idol will end after its 15th season, announced Fox Monday, May 11.

The news was posted in the network’s website, along with announcements about the rest of the lineup.

The current judges, as well as longtime host Ryan Seacrest will return for the final season, which is being called a “season-long celebratory event.”

“AMERICAN IDOL will begin its 15th – and final – season this January on FOX. A season-long celebratory event, AMERICAN IDOL XV will feature host Ryan Seacrest and judges Jennifer Lopez, Keith Urban and Harry Connick, Jr., as they search for the final IDOL superstar and pay tribute to the past 14 seasons of amazingly talented contestants and the millions of fans who tweeted, texted and championed their IDOLs,” said the release posted on fox.com.

Just announced! @AmericanIdol will begin its 15th – and FINAL – season this JAN on @FOXTV​! http://t.co/DLJmi9U3Ff pic.twitter.com/KQffQPjMvn

— American Idol (@AmericanIdol) May 11, 2015

American Idol launched in 2002 with Simon Cowell, Randy Jackson, and Paula Abdul as the judges, and now superstar Kelly Clarkson as the first winner.

Since then, the show has produced a number of notable alumni, including country darling Carrie Underwood, rock star Chris Daughtry, and Oscar-winning actress Jennifer Hudson. But it has also struggled with declining ratings and the onslaught of newer reality shows with different formats, including The Voice.

Are you sad to see Idol go? Let us know in the comments below. – Rappler.com