American Idol has run for nine years and produced stars including Kelly Clarkson, Kris Allen and Taylor Hicks.

BBC: Ex-Spice Girls boss eyes Idol bid

Last year runner-up Jessica Sanchez was just as talented and deserving as winner Phillip Phillips, the previous season runner-up Lauren Aleana was neck and neck with winner and fellow country signer Scotty McCreery, and in the previous two season, the runner ups, Crystal Bowersox and Adam Lambert, were better than the winners, Lee DeWyze and Kris Allen.

FORBES: American Idol Season 12 Preview: Are Judges The Weak Link?

Sporting stars Dennis Taylor, Willie Thorne, Mike England, Kris Akabusi and Mark Allen are also taking part.

BBC: Golf event to honour legend Best