If you listen closely, you can already hear the mangled warblings of singers auditioning for the next season of "American Idol." That's right, the new season begins January 15 and Fox is already planning another charity-themed episode for later in the spring.
The show, called "Idol Gives Back," first debuted on last season's "American Idol." Ryan Seacrest hyped the special for weeks, promising plenty of guest stars who would help raise money for charity. And despite some big names who did show up (including Annie Lennox and first season winner Kelly Clarkson), the show was a little light on star wattage. It also featured a confusing duet between Celine Dion and Elvis, who was digitally inserted into a shot of the AI stage. It's probably a testament to the power of "American Idol" that, according to Entertainment Weekly and Variety, the special raised almost $75 million.
The two-hour "Idol Gives Back" event will air April 9 at 8 p.m. on Fox. --Chris Sardelli