Idol Decreases Minimum Age

American Idol is going lower to get to the top—the reality TV talent competition is changing its minimum age requirement to 15, a rep for the series announced Monday. “A lot of young, talented people are now seeking careers and representation before they turn 16,” the show’s executive producer told The Hollywood Reporter. “Lowering the age limit allows us to tap into this talent pool.” The maximum age requirement—which is 28—remains the same. Along with the age requirement change, the show will also soon announce a new music director and a new judge to replace Simon Cowell. Auditions for the upcoming season of American Idol begin on July 17 in Nashville, Tennessee.