UPDATE: Billboard reports that Ryan Seacrest has now commented on the upcoming demise of American Idol.

He said in a statement: “American Idol has been a big part of my life for so long, it’s frankly hard to imagine it without it. It’s been a remarkable journey, and I feel very fortunate to have been part of a show that made television history in countless ways. It’s a show about chasing and fulfilling dreams, and truth be told, it helped some of my own dreams come true, too. All the American Idol producers, judges, crew and everyone at Fox have been heroic in their efforts to create, produce and sustain such a groundbreaking show for so many years. I’m so glad they’re going to give us a season-long send off. The last season will undoubtedly be a special and emotional one, but first I’m looking forward to closing out Season 14. The finale is always my favorite part — two live shows with lots of surprises, and, of course, one winner!”

Seacrest hosted the show from its series premiere in 2002 all the way to today. In season one, he shared hosting with Brian Dunkleman, who left after that year. His success with Idol allowed him to have the busy career he enjoys today, including Ryan Seacrest Productions, which produces E!’s Keeping Up With The Kardashians.

ORIGINAL: TV Line reports that FOX will end American Idol after its next season, which will be its fifteenth overall. The show will debut in January and feature returning judges Jennifer Lopez, Harry Connick Jr and Keith Urban. It will “pay tribute to the past 14 seasons” of the reality show.

American Idol originally debuted in 2002 and was a huge hit. During the second season, it was the #1 show on television and stayed that way for eight more years. The ratings have started to drop over the years, which is likely what led to the decision.

http://411mania.com/music/american-idol-will-end-after-season-15/