Harry Connick, Jr., will be an “American Idol” judge. Fox formally announced that Harry Connick, Jr., will join Jennifer Lopez, Keith Urban as an “American Idol” judge.

Fox announced that Harry Connick, Jr. officially joined “American Idol” as a judge for the thirteenth season.

Harry Connick, Jr., finishes off the “American Idol” judges’ panel. The singer/songwriter/pianist joins “American Idol” veterans Jennifer Lopez and Keith Urban. “American Idol” will not have a fourth judge on the thirteenth season. “American Idol” stalwart Randy Jackson stepped out of the judging panel to take the new “American Idol” role as an in-house mentor.

Harry Connick, Jr., said “I have always been a huge fan of ‘American Idol’ and really enjoyed my time as a mentor on the show. And I am honored that they’ve asked me to be a judge this season. As an entertainer, I am truly excited to bring my perspective to ‘American Idol,’ and to help emerging performers find their way.”

There was a lot of speculation for the “American Idol” 13th Season. Some names that had been thrown around were music producer Dr. Luke and performers will.i.am, Jennifer Hudson and Scooter Braun. Harry Connick, Jr., was a late entry into the running. Harry Connick, Jr., joined “American Idol” after the deal that Fox was working on with Dr. Luke didn’t pan out.

Now that “American Idol” has picked it’s final judge for the panel. The Fox show will continue its overhaul. Former Fox Sports Chairman David Hill has been hard at work putting new life into “American Idol.” Hill who made his bones programming sports took over from Mike Darnell. “American Idol” saw its ratings sag last season.

Fox head Kevin Reilly admitted that “American Idol” lost some focus while trying to amp up the tension between the celebrity judges in the last few years. By adding Harry Connick, Jr., who is a relatively un-polarizing singer, to the “American Idol” judges’ table, the show hopes to bring the show back to the contestants and their musical abilities.

Ryan Seacrest, said “I couldn’t be prouder to be a part of the ‘American Idol XIII’ family. Our new producers, judging panel and mentor are all fired up for this season.”

“American Idol” kicks off its 13th season in January.