Changes in Store for American Idol

With the turn of the new year brings with it a new season of American Idol, set to debut in January.

Among the changes that will come is the return of the wild card finalists that are selected by the judges Simon Cowell, Paula Abdul, and Randy Jackson. According to the show's producer, Ken Warwick, there will be less time devoted to the horrific auditions for which the show has become known.

"I would have a pretty boring show on my hands and it wouldn't be honest," said Warwick.

According to Warwick, Paula Abdul is here to stay, despite the constant bickering between her and Cowell. In a recent radio interview with Barbara Walters, Abdul stated she was disappointed in Warwick's decision to allow stalker Paula Goodspeed to audition for the show. Goodspeed was found dead in a car outside of Abdul's home in November.

"If I'd thought anyone was dangerous for any reason, I would not let them in," Warwick said.

The ninth season of American Idol is scheduled to air on January 13 and 14 with a two night, four hour premiere from 8 to 10 p.m. American Idol will cut the nationwide tryouts from four weeks to three weeks and send more folks to Hollywood - 36 men and women compared to two dozen contestants in previous seasons.

The group will be cut down to twelve contestants, nine of which will be chosen by the audience, and three will be wild card singers selected by the judges.

"If something goes horrendously awry, the judges could fix it on the wild card show," Warwick said.