AMERICAN IDOL Producers Lythgoe, Warwick Confirm Exit

Today American Idol executive producers Nigel Lythgoe and Ken Warwick confirmed recent reports that they are exiting the show prior to the start of Season 13. The announcement follows a season of dismal ratings for the once-time Reality Show juggernaut.

A statement from the FOX Network reads as follows:

"The passion and dedication that Nigel Lythgoe and Ken Warwick brought to American Idol guided the show to become a true cultural phenomenon. While we are saddened they will no longer be executive producers on the show, we are grateful for their tremendous contributions and look forward to continuing to work with them on additional projects."

No details have been revealed as to who the network will chose as replacements for Lythgoe and Warwick. Reports have recently surfaced that the entire judge's panel will be revamped to include past Idol contestants such as Jennifer Hudson and Kelly Clarkson.