It’s almost that time again – the return of “American Idol”! “American Idol” just finished their Hollywood Round, and the judges are boasting that this looks to be the best season ever. Of course, what else are they going to say?

Randy Jackson laid it on heavy with the “dudes, telling Extra:
“Season 7 is off with a bang dude. I’m telling you, the talent is unbelievable. It’s crazy dude! I can’t even believe it myself. I think it’s the best [talent] we’ve ever had. People say, ‘Aw! You say that every season!’ But I’ve got to literally tell you it is so good… We found talent I didn’t ever think we’d found with this show and we found some things that really epitomizes what the show is really, really about.”

Even grouchy old Simon Cowell agreed, saying, “Potentially it is [the best season so far]. It’s fresher. The talent is better. You know this year for me was all about identities. It wasn’t just enough to say you’re a good singer. It was you’re different — you’ve got your own identity — you’re unique. This will be the strongest [Top 12] we’ve ever had. I never, ever have said that before, but this year, genuinely, it’s the strongest we’ve got.”

Paula Abdul never has anything bad to say, so her comments aren’t all that earth shattering: “We have had so many stand-out superstars now. I am so excited about this season. It’s equal guys to girls. It’s anyone’s game. Simon Cowell cannot predict the winner this season.”

So, with all that hype, you’ve got to put in on your calendar: “American Idol 7” kicks off on January 15 and January 16 at 8 PM (two hour shows each night), then airs Tuesdays at 8 PM and Wednesdays at 8 PM. The first results show will air March 12 at 9 PM.