Will confirmed for 'World Idol'

Will Young has been confirmed for the lineup of World Idol, a show that will pit winners of the Idol programme around the globe against each other.

Young will appear alongside the first American Idol victor Kelly Clarkson in the programme, which will broadcast in a number of countries on Christmas Day.

Also taking part are Heinz Winckler (South Africa), Alicja Janosz (Poland), Jamai Loman (Netherlands), Alexander Klaws (Germany), Kurt Nilsen (Norway), Diana Karazon (Lebanon), Peter Evrard (Belgium), Ryan Malcolm (Canada) and the as-yet undetermined winner from Australia.

There will be two programmes in all, the first of which will go out on Christmas Day and feature live performances from each of the contestants. The second will be the final results show, transmitting over the New Year holiday period.

The international contest will include localised segments, with various series one presenters hosting and linking the participating countries’ broadcasts from London. A representative from each country’s judging panel will also sit on an international jury.

“When I dreamt up the idea of Pop Idol, I always saw it is a global concept, and so I'm delighted to see World Idol being made here in London," said Simon Fuller. "The last two years have been fantastic and it is incredibly satisfying to see a British TV idea being so successful on a global stage.???