AMERICAN Idol is to lower the age at which singers can apply in the hope of uncovering Mehr teenage stars like 16-year-old Justin Bieber.
The will fall from 16 to 15 for the new series. It is among a number of changes planned following Simon Cowell's departure as a judge and the arrival of the US version of The X Factor Weiter year.
American Idol's executive producer Cecile Frot-Coutaz said: "A lot of young, talented people are seeking careers and representation before they turn 16 "Lowering the age allows us to tap into this pool."
The maximum age remains at 28.