TV Guide's 'Idol' extends into Season 2

By Kimberly Nordyke

Jan 24, 2007, ET

TV Guide Channel wants to make sure "American Idol" fans who just can't get enough of the show are satiated.

The network has greenlighted a second season of "Idol Tonight," the exclusive preshow for Fox's "Idol," set to air at 8 p.m. Wednesdays starting in March, after the contestants have been whittled down to 12 finalists.

In addition, Justin Guarini, runner-up on the first season of "Idol," has been tapped to serve as co-host alongside Season 3 finalist Kimberly Caldwell and Rosanna Tavarez, one of the winners of WB Network's "Popstars."

TV Guide Channel president Ryan O'Hara said "Idol Tonight" is one of the network's highest-rated regular series.

" 'American Idol' is like the Super Bowl week in and week out, and our fans can't get enough of it," he said. "We're positioning ourselves as a destination for all things 'American Idol.' "

O'Hara added that Guarini has "tons of energy" and a great deal of passion for "American Idol."

"Idol Tonight" -- which airs live from the CBS Television City studios in Los Angeles, where "American Idol" is broadcast from -- features interviews with former finalists, industry insiders, fashion stylists and vocal coaches, among others.

O'Hara added that because "Idol Tonight" airs from the "doorstep" of "American Idol," "there's all the energy and excitement from the fans and contestants. It's the ultimate pregame show."

TV Guide's 'Idol' extends into Season 2

By Kimberly Nordyke

Jan 24, 2007, ET