By Michele Amabile Angermiller for Variety
Hollywood Week has arrived on “American Idol,” which marks its 20th year on air this season. For that reason, several familiar faces are returning to the show tonight as mentors during Hollywood Week.
Among the “Idol” alums reporting for duty on tonight’s episode, which was filmed in December, are: Season 7 winner David Cook, Season 10 runner-up Lauren Alaina, Season 2 winner Ruben Studdard, Season 9 winner Lee DeWyze, Season 10 second runner-up Haley Reinhart and Season 19 champ Chayce Beckham.
“I always enjoy those opportunities,” says Cook, who mentored in the past on the show’s pre-ABC days and is always willing to assist up and coming artists. “It’s such a unique experience to go through. And maybe I can help some of these kids navigate it a little easier.”