full size Phillip Phillips, Jessica Sanchez, and Ryan Seacrest in the American Idol 2012 Finale
Credit: Michael Becker/FOX ©2012 Fox Broadcasting Co.

American Idol may not be the ratings juggernaut it once was, but Fox still sees the popular singing competition as a huge asset to the network.

According to The Hollywood Reporter, Fox Network Group president David Haslingden spoke to investors at a conference yesterday, saying the company is “absolutely committed” to pulling up Idol’s ratings.

“This is still the number one non-sport show in the United States,” said David, adding that the network will “throw all resources” into making improvements.

Even before the Season 11 finale, rumors have swirled about the beloved show undergoing a “creative reinvigoration” next season. And while ratings have slipped (a comment which Idol executive producer Nigel Lythgoe bristled at), David said Fox foresees the show continuing on for quite a while.

"We are optimistic it’s going to continue on for 15, 16, 17 seasons," he said.

Seeing as host Ryan Seacrest has already signed on for two more years of Idol, we can’t picture the show cutting its losses anytime soon!

Source: The Hollywood Reporter



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