The third season of American Idol will premiere one day earlier than first planned, FOX have announced.

Instead of two audition specials there will now be three, with the premiere on Monday January 19 at 8pm. Further episodes will air January 20 and January 21 before the show moves to its regular Tuesday/Wednesday pattern on January 27.

A sneak preview of season three footage will be shown during tomorrow night's Billboard Music Awards ceremony.