Preview: ‘American Idol’ Returns!

Access has your first glimpse at Season 9 of everyone’s favorite singing competition, “American Idol”! Will one of these aspiring singers be the next “Idol”? Find out starting in January on FOX, with new judge Ellen DeGeneres.

Paula Abdul Running Late At 2009 American Music Awards

Former “American Idol” judge Paula Abdul was running late on the red carpet, as she was the first presenter of the night. But Paula still made time for Access’ Shaun Robinson to chat about her gorgeous black dress.

Dish Of Salt: TV Roundup (November 21, 2009)

Former “American Idol” contestants get together for a holiday tour. Plus, Heather Locklear made her return to “Melrose Place” this week, but did it help ratings? And, Katee Sackhoff gears up for her “Big Bang Theory” cameo.

Dish Of Salt: Former ‘American Idols’ Prepare For 2009 Holiday Tour

AccessHollywood.com’s Laura Saltman talks with former “Idol” contestants Gina Glocksen, Alexis Grace, Michael Sarver and Mikalah Gordon as they rehearse for their 2009 holiday tour. So how did they decide to put together the tour?

Dish Of Salt: Adam Lambert Reacts To His Sexy Details Magazine Photos

“American Idol” runner-up Adam Lambert talks with AccessHollywood.com’s Laura Saltman about his racy Details magazine photo shoot. But as an openly gay man, did he have any issues kissing a woman for the pictures?

Paula Abdul: ‘I’m Having The Time Of My Life Right Now’

AccessHollywood.com’s Dish of Salt Laura Saltman talks with Paula about Michael Jackson receiving 5 AMA nominations, missing Simon Cowell’s 50th birthday and if she has spoken to Ellen since she was announced as the fourth “Idol” judge.

Dish Of Salt: Adam Lambert On AMAs, Debut Album & More

Adam Lambert chats with AccessHollywood.com’s Laura Saltman about the excitement of announcing the 2009 American Music Award nominees, performing his debut single at the AMAs and the release of his debut album.

David Foster On Ellen DeGeneres & Whitney Houston

Music producer David Foster chimes in on Ellen DeGeneres joining “American Idol” and Paula Abdul’s departure. Plus, David chats about Whitney Houston’s comeback.

Kris Allen Living His ‘Dream’ Of Releasing First Single

Kris Allen discusses the difficulties of the “American Idol” tour, releasing his first single and reveals if he and fellow former “Idol” contestant Adam Lambert are still friends. Plus, what does he think about Ellen taking over for Paula on “Idol”?

2009 Emmys Red Carpet: Kara DioGuardi On ‘Idol’ Auditions & Ellen DeGeneres

“American Idol” judge Kara DioGuardi chats with Billy Bush about how “Idol” auditions are going and how Ellen DeGeneres is great for the show. Plus, what is Kara’s reaction to Paula Abdul’s Ellen impersonation.

Gwen Stefani Raves About Ellen On ‘Idol:’ She’s Gonna Bring Her Whole Everything’

Former “American Idol” mentor Gwen Stefani raves about Ellen DeGeneres joining “American Idol” as the fourth judge. Plus, why wouldn’t Gwen ever want to be a guest judge on the show? And will No Doubt ever play on “Idol” again?

Former ‘Idols’ Shine At 2009 ‘VH1 Divas’ Concert

Kelly Clarkson, Jennifer Hudson and Jordin Sparks talk about the significance that three former “American Idols” are at VH1 Divas. Plus, what do they each think about Ellen stepping in for Paula on “Idol”?

David Archuleta: ‘I Love Ellen’

While at the 2009 ALMA Awards, “American Idol” season 7 runner-up David Archuleta weighs in on Ellen DeGeneres becoming the fourth “Idol” judge.

Jennifer Aniston Reveals Crush On Ellen DeGeneres (September 16, 2009)

Jennifer Aniston visits “The Ellen DeGeneres Show” and offers a serenade for Ellen. But what does “American Idol’s” newest judge have to say about Jen’s singing? Plus, Jennifer talks about her 40th birthday party.

2009 MTV Video Music Awards: Kara DioGuardi Is Ecstatic For Ellen

Access’ Maria Menounos catches up with “American Idol” judge Kara DioGuardi at the 2009 MTV Video Music Awards where she chats about Ellen DeGeneres becoming the fourth judge on “American Idol.”

Rosie O’Donnell: Ellen Will Be ‘Much Better Than Paula’ On ‘Idol’

Rosie O’Donnell reacts to the news of Ellen DeGeneres becoming the fourth judge on “American Idol,” saying that she will be better than Paula Abdul, “who was often incoherent.”

Nick Cannon & Sharon Osbourne’s Thoughts On Ellen As An ‘Idol’ Judge

Access breaks the news to “America’s Got Talent” host Nick Cannon and judge Sharon Osbourne about Ellen DeGeneres becoming the fourth “American Idol” judge. They share their thoughts on Ellen joining “Idol.”

Randy Jackson Reacts To Ellen DeGeneres Joining ‘Idol:’ ‘Hot! Hot! We Love It!’ (September 10, 2009)

Randy Jackson is super excited to welcome Ellen to “Idol” as the fourth judge. Plus, why does Randy call Ellen the “voice of the people”? And, has Randy spoken to Paula about the news?

Queen Latifah Jokes About Being The New ‘American Idol’ Judge

Access catches up with Queen Latifah at her Pepsi “We Inspire” photo shoot where she talks about the possibility of guest judging on “American Idol” and her new album, “Persona.”

Nigel Lythgoe: Paula Abdul ‘Has Everything That I Need’

“So You Think You Can Dance” judge Nigel Lythgoe tells AccessHollywood.com’s Laura Saltman he wants Paula Abdul and “American Idol” to work out a deal.

Access Extended: La Toya Jackson Tackles The Reality Show Rumors (August 13, 2009)

Access’ Tony Potts talks exclusively to La Toya Jackson who reveals whether she is headed to “Dancing With the Stars” or possibly, “American Idol.” Plus, La Toya shares her feelings over possibly sitting next to Simon Cowell.

A Look Back: ‘American Idol’ Year One

Access Hollywood takes you back to 2002 and our very first interview with the three “Idol” judges as a group. It’s Simon, Paula and Randy - the way they were.

Jordin Sparks: Paula Abdul Is ‘Awesome’

Access’ Shaun Robinson catches up with Jordin Sparks at the 2009 Teen Choice Awards where she talks about Paula Abdul’s exit from “American Idol.” Plus, what words of encouragement does Jordin have for Paula?

Nigel Lythgoe: Paula Abdul Leaving ‘Idol’ Is ‘The End Of An Era’ (August 5, 2009)

As one of the original creators of “American Idol,” Nigel Lythgoe responds to the “sad” news that Paula Abdul is leaving the show. Plus, will Nigel invite Paula to join his other hit show, “So You Think You Can Dance”?