Former Shine exec Per Blankens will be charged with revamping American Idol after being named executive producer of the FremantleMedia-produced format.

Blankens was most recently managing director of Swedish indie Friday TV and Meter Television, where he produced the Swedish version of Idols as well as local versions of formats including The Biggest Loser and MasterChef.

His appointment to American Idol follows the departure of former LWT exec Nigel Lythgoe earlier this month.

“Per is a creative and experienced executive who has been the show runner on the blockbuster Swedish Idol for more than five seasons. He is extremely passionate about Idol and I’m very excited about his ideas and vision for keeping Idol creatively vibrant. He brings the talent and energy needed to keep American Idol strong,” said Trish Kinane, American Idol executive producer for FremantleMedia North America.

Blankens added: “The Idol franchise is a worldwide phenomenon and I’m honoured to be a part of the most popular of the franchises, American Idol. I can’t wait to get started as auditions for the new season are just a few weeks away.”

The 13th season of American Idol will launch in January on Fox; the show is produced by FremantleMedia North America and 19 Entertainment.

Topics