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See the ‘American Idol’ Judges Then and Now Amid News the Show Is Returning to TV!

This is so exciting!

After a nearly two-year-long hiatus, American Idol is finally returning to the small screen after much anticipation! And what better way to get ready for yet another season of the singing competition than by taking a look back at the judges then and now?

Simon Cowell, Randy Jackson, and Paula Abdul were the original trio on the show, which first debuted in 2002. And now, 15 years later, the series is returning to a new network, ABC (it was originally on FOX for 15 seasons), they announced on Tuesday, May 9.

MUST SEE: Check out Where the ‘American Idol’ Runner-Ups Are Now!

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Simon, Paula, and Randy in 2002.

American Idol is a pop-culture staple that left the air too soon,” said Channing Dungey, president of ABC Entertainment, of the show’s cancellation last spring. “ABC is the right home to reignite the fan base. We are thrilled viewers will once again share in these inspiring stories of people realizing their dreams.”

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However, no further details about the show, including which judges will return, what time it will be on, how long it will be on, and most importantly who is going to host have been announced! Just last week, former Idol host Ryan Seacrest accepted the gig of Kelly Ripa’s new co-host on Live With Kelly, so it’s unclear if he’ll be able to balance it all at this time. We’ll have to wait and see!

Click through the gallery below to see the American Idol judges then and now!