American Idol Planning to Stick With Four Judges in Post-Paula Era

Katy Perry and Victoria Beckham are set to guest judge in season eight

Paula Abdul is gone from Idol, and Fox boss Peter Rice told reporters at the Television Critics Association press tour, "We're very sad that she's not coming back." But the show must go on. So what's the plan for Idol season nine? Well, for one thing, the four-judge setup ain't dead yet, and they're bringing in some surprise celebrity guests to fill the gap. Read on to find out who:

According to Rice, musician Katy Perry and (as previously reported) one-time Spice Girl Victoria Beckham are set to be guest judges during the audition portion of the season. Other celebrity judges will join the fray shortly, and it's not clear if any one character will stick around long-term, but per Rice, "The four judges were getting in a rhythm last year, and we will probably have four judges back."

Rice continued, "We feel between now and [January] that we will come up with a solution and replacement for Paula. We are looking forward to the season. Obviously, there is going to be a different dynamic. We will be looking to bring a different element and different energy to the season."