Ryan Seacrest recently expressed his reflections on legacy and his enduring role as host of American Idol during an interview with PEOPLE at the Nashville American Idol Season 9 press line. With nearly 25 years at the helm of the iconic singing competition, Seacrest shared that he hasn’t given much thought to what his legacy will be, stating, “That’s a big question. I haven’t thought about legacy yet.”
What Seacrest emphasizes is his desire for viewers to feel comfortable and enjoy the show. He aims to create a welcoming atmosphere that appeals to audiences of all ages, allowing families to gather and share in the experience. “People can get together as a family to watch the show. And for me to make them feel comfortable, as if we’ve known each other for a long time, even if we’ve never met,” he remarked.
Despite the changes in judges and contestants over the years, Seacrest noted that his approach to hosting remains consistent. He believes in being adaptable and responsive to the live show’s dynamics, stating, “You just listen to the room and go with the flow of what the show is — you can’t plan out too much of it.” This spontaneity, he feels, is part of the show’s charm.
Seacrest also conveyed the excitement he feels from meeting new contestants every year, many of whom have grown up watching him on television. He acknowledged the emotional journeys of the aspiring artists, many of whom have expressed doubts about their own potential. He finds inspiration in their stories of overcoming self-doubt, often triggered by seeing relatable figures on the show who break the mold of conventional contestants.
As American Idol gears up for its new season, with the premiere scheduled for January 26 at 8 p.m. ET, Seacrest’s energy and commitment to the show continue to shine through. With each season, he looks forward to witnessing how it evolves and how it inspires new talent to take the stage, creating a hopeful outlook for the future of the beloved competition.