American Idol (2009 Series)

The eighth season of American Idol launched on 13 January 2009. In this season, the original three judges - Simon Cowell, Paula Abdul and Randy Jackson - are joined by songwriter Kara DioGuardi. Ryan Seacrest returns as presenter for the series.

Among the changes to the show's format, there are to be fewer 'funny' auditions in season 8, and more focus on the auditionees. The show is to spend more time focussing on the contestants' histories and viewers will learn more about them.

Ken Warwick takes over from Nigel Lythgoe as Executive Producer of American Idol. Lythgoe, who has been with American Idol since the beginning, is moving on to So You Think You Can Dance and Superstars Of Dance.

The charity show, Idol Gives Back, is cancelled this year due to the economic downturn.

A Wild Card round is to be reintroduced during the semi-finals. After the final 36 have been reduced to 9 contestants, 3 former contestants will be chosen to return. These contestants will be chosen by the judges and not by the public.

Finalists

Alexis Grace, a 21-year old from Memphis, Tennessee. She has a young daughter and is engaged to be married to the father.

Michael Sarver, a 28-year old rigger from Jasper, Texas. Sarver is married with two children.

Danny Gokey, a 28-year old church music director from Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Gokey became a widower four weeks before his first audition when his wife died of a heart condition.