Cape Town – The popular reality singing competition returns for its 13th season in July.
Last year the season finale smashed viewership records and this year Idols SA is upping the ante.
Here's what you need to know:
1. When and where
The season will debut on Sunday, 9 July at 17:30 on Mzansi Magic (DStv 161) and will run until November.
2. Who's replacing Gareth?
Gareth Cliff fought his way back into Idols but now he's left. The shock jock announced he was leaving the show before the finale last year. (Read more here)
Gareth's seat at the judging table will not be filled and the show has opted to stick to just three judges: Unathi, Somizi and Randall.
3. Meet the guest judges
Celebrity judges accompanied the trio during their nationwide autidion run. R&B muso Donald impressed in Cape Town, Kelly Khumalo took charge in Joburg, Phat Joe was in Durban and former Idols winner and music star Khaya Mthethwa gave love in Pretoria.
4. Something new
To add some spice the show introduced the Golden Disc, a “get out of jail free card” that a judge can use to bump up a contestant to Theatre Week even if the other judges say no.
5. Small town love
After years of asking for their own round of auditions Port Elizabeth, Bloemfontein and Polokwane finally had their wish granted. The audition roadshow gave these towns their time to shine.
We cannot wait for the entertainment that this year's round of hopefuls will bring!
Save the date all the drama stars on Sunday, 9 July at 17:30 on Mzansi Magic (DStv 161).