On the heels of a personal announcement from Howard Stern on his radio show Tuesday morning, NBC has announced that all four judges on America’s Got Talent will return for another season.
The judges panel is made up of entertainment icons Stern, Heidi Klum, Mel B and Howie Mandel. In addition, Nick Cannon will continue his hosting gig.
“Howard, Heidi, Mel and Howie have proven that they are a dynamic quartet of judges who aren’t afraid to share their opinions, while at the same time creating fireworks of their own,” said Paul Telegdy, President of Alternative and Late-Night Programming at NBC. “Along with Nick serving as an incomparable host, our talent on ‘Talent’ is among the finest on all of television.”
“The judges on ‘America’s Got Talent’ this past season were fun, astute and really knew how to spot talent,” said Trish Kinane, Executive Producer and President of Entertainment, FremantleMedia North America. “We are delighted to have this vibrant group of diverse, discerning personalities returning to take the show to new heights next season.”
This will be Stern’s third year on the show and Mandel’s fifth. Meanwhile, the ladies are both returning for their second seasons.
Auditions for America’s Got Talent season 9 are currently underway. More information about auditioning can be learned on the official website. The new season is expected to premiere summer 2014.
Ratings for the show have continued to be strong. Season 8 averaged a 3.3 rating and a 10 share in the coveted adults 18-49 slot. In NBC’s words, that makes it the top summer reality television show in the age group and total viewers.