After much speculation, the new "American Idol" judging panel is set.
Jennifer Lopez, Keith Urban and Harry Connick Jr. will serve as the judges for Season 13 of the FOX singing competition, which returns in January 2014.
"And I am honored that they've asked me to be a judge this season," Harry told "The Hollywood Reporter." As an entertainer, I am truly excited to bring my perspective to 'American Idol,' and to help emerging performers find their way."
Auditions began today in Boston, with Keith and Harry arriving casually dressed.
Harry previously served as a guest mentor on "Idol." Keith is the only returning judge from Season 12 (Mariah Carey and Nicki Minaj both chose not to return), while Jennifer served on the panel for Seasons 10 and 11.
The panel is the most diverse in terms of music: Jennifer is pop, Keith is country, and Harry is jazz/swing/big band. This is the first time an African American judge is not on the panel, but Randy Jackson will be serving as the contestants' mentor this upcoming season. Ryan Seacrest will continue to host.
New producers Per Blankens, Jesse Ignjatovic and Evan Prager have promised a number of changes, in addition to the just-announced panel.
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