FOX's Hit Series 'American Idol' to Be Inducted Into NAB Broadcasting Hall of Fame

WASHINGTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The National Association of Broadcasters announced today that television’s No. 1 series, the long-running reality competition series "American Idol," will be the television inductee into the NAB Broadcasting Hall of Fame. The show will be honored at the 2013 NAB Show Television Luncheon, April 8 in Las Vegas.

“NAB is proud to recognize this innovative television program.”

"For over a decade, 'American Idol' has shaped the reality competition television genre, brought families together by entertaining viewers of all ages and made a huge cultural impact," said NAB President and CEO Gordon Smith. "NAB is proud to recognize this innovative television program."

For nine consecutive seasons, the show, created by Simon Fuller, has been the No. 1 entertainment program among total viewers, empowering contestants and viewers to share their voices in deciding who will be America’s next singing superstar.

Part of the show’s landmark achievements have been in music sales and awards won by former contestants. Former "Idol" contestants have produced 370 No. 1 Billboard hits and accrued more than 250 million iTunes downloads. Season 11 winner Phillip Phillips' first single, "Home," has been certified double-platinum. Season 10 winner Scotty McCreery’s debut album "Clear As Day" also went platinum as it dominated the Billboard Country Albums chart. Past winners Kelly Clarkson, Ruben Studdard, Fantasia Barrino, Carrie Underwood, Taylor Hicks and Jordin Sparks have all dominated the music charts and won multiple awards, including Grammy Awards, American Music Awards, Country Music Awards and Billboard Music Awards. Additionally, Jennifer Hudson is an Academy Award winner, and other former contestants such as Daughtry, Kellie Pickler, Adam Lambert and Jessica Sanchez have all become household names and made their marks on the recording industry.

"American Idol" returns for a 12th season with a special two-night premiere airing January 16 and 17 on FOX. Hosted by Ryan Seacrest, the show will feature a new judging panel that includes returning judge Randy Jackson, a Grammy Award-winning producer, as well as three new judges: best-selling female recording artist Mariah Carey; quadruple-platinum singer, songwriter, rapper and fashion icon Nicki Minaj; and Keith Urban, a four-time Grammy Award winner who has sold more than 15 million albums.

Since its inception, the series has featured an array of acclaimed judges, including music executive Simon Cowell, pop singer and choreographer Paula Abdul, Aerosmith front man Steven Tyler and artist Jennifer Lopez.

Through its charitable initiative, “Idol Gives Back,” "American Idol" has raised more than $185 million to benefit and create awareness for children and families living in poverty and at risk in the United States and abroad. Charity partners include the Children’s Health Fund, Feeding America, Malaria No More and Save the Children’s U.S. program, among others. In continuing its philanthropic efforts, "American Idol" also encouraged viewers to donate to the American Red Cross, following the tsunami in Japan, while donating profits from "Idol’s" Season 10 compilation album to the relief efforts.

"American Idol" is produced by 19 Entertainment, a division of Core Media Group, and FremantleMedia North America. The series is created and executive-produced by Simon Fuller, CEO, XIX Entertainment. Trish Kinane, FremantleMedia North America; Ken Warwick, FremantleMedia North America and Nigel Lythgoe, CEO, Nigel Lythgoe Productions also serve as executive producers.

Previous NAB Broadcasting Hall of Fame television inductees include Betty White, Garry Marshall, "Meet the Press," Bob Newhart, "The Tonight Show," "Saturday Night Live," Ted Koppel, "M*A*S*H," "60 Minutes," "The Today Show" and "Star Trek."