verge of the final season of "american idol" and they are saying good-bye and this is michael tamero. >> 2016 will mark the 15th and final season of "american idol." at one point this show was considered the most impactful show in television. when you look at the numbers, 30 million people tune in, at one point taking up four nights each week. and harry connick, jr. is returning as one of the judges this year. we asked him about what we could expect for nut season. >> all right. harry connick, jr. >> starting to pick on the show but the only show of its kind that produced stars. >> you're right. i mean, it is undeniable. i could sit here and talk to you for an hour about the different people that are idol alumni that made great contributions. and that's why i was so thrilled to be a part of it when they asked. it is nice to be a small part of that process.