Fox to overhaul 'American Idol'

Fox is to overhaul the American Idol format for next season.

According to a leaked memo from the network, the reality show will cut the number of audition rounds and shift focus from the bad singers onto the more "aspirational" talents during the early shows.

In addition, the top 36 (as opposed to 24) will compete for a place in the semi-finals and the wild card week will make a return.

The Idol Gives Back charity show will not take place next year, but will return for season nine with producers hoping to make the telecast an every-other-year event.

As confirmed in August, songwriter Kara DioGuardi will be a new addition to the judging panel, while veteran producer Nigel Lythgoe is departing after seven seasons.

Executive producer Ken Warwick is expected to hold a press conference today to confirm the changes.