Luke Bryan ‘Feels Positive’ That He’ll Be Back for ‘American Idol’ Season 3
American Idol was recently renewed for a third season on ABC -- the TV singing competition's 18th season overall -- but the show's judges are still working out their contracts. Country superstar Luke Bryan, though, says he's confident that he, Lionel Richie and Katy Perry will remain on the show in its new season.
"All things feel positive that me and Lionel and Katy will be back," Bryan says (quote via Taste of Country). "We’re doing the business of the business."
According to the Wall Street Journal, Bryan made $12 million for Season 1 of American Idol in 2018. He jokes that he's asking for about $180 million for Season 3, adding, "I always like to find out what Blake [Shelton] is making on The Voice and just do it $1 more than him."
On a more serious note, Bryan says he, Perry and Richie are pleased with the tone of these recent American Idol seasons. Their judging style is more positive than that of the show's original judges -- Simon Cowelll, Randy Jackson and Paula Abdul -- who were with the TV singing competition when it began on Fox in the early 2000s.
“When Ryan Seacrest sends you a text message going, ‘Thank you for really making this brand … a great brand,’ it’s something that we’re proud of," Bryan admits. "It’s something I enjoy doing. It’s something that I work hard at.”
American Idol's season finale will air on ABC on Sunday night (May 19). Bryan is due to perform his newest single, "Knockin' Boots," and duet with Top 5 contestant Laci Kaye Booth. The finale will also feature performances from former Idol winner Carrie Underwood, Dan + Shay, Jon Pardi and Kane Brown, as well as a number of non-country artists.
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