(ABC/Eric McCandless)

The ratings aren’t what they used to be but ABC is still singing the praises of American Idol. The alphabet network has renewed the reality TV series for an 18th season, the show’s third on ABC. The new season’s judges have not been announced as yet.

A revival of the FOX music competition, American Idol typically airs on Sundays and Mondays. Returning for season 17 were Lionel Richie, Katy Perry, and Luke Bryan as judges and Ryan Seacrest as host. Bobby Bones joined them as the official in-house mentor, an expansion of the role he played last year for the Top 24. After making it through the nationwide audition process, the contestant pool narrows through a series of elimination rounds. Once the contest reaches the semi-finals, although the judges offer their criticism, the decision to keep or cut a performer is up to the viewing audience. For a specified window of time, fans may vote for their favorites, via phone call, text messages, and online. At stake is the “American Idol” title and a recording contract.

The first night (Sundays) of the 17th season of American Idol is averaging a 1.31 rating in the 18-49 demographic and 7.41 million viewers. Compared to the season 16 Sunday editions, that’s down by 21% in the demo and down by 7% in viewership.

The second night (Mondays) of season 17 is averaging a 1.16 rating in the 18-49 demographic with 6.54 million viewers. Compared to the season 16 Monday editions, that’s down by 27% in the demo and down by 16% in viewership.

https://twitter.com/AmericanIdol/status/1127988712619507713

What do you think? Do you enjoy the American Idol TV show? Will you be watching season 18 of this ABC series?