After extensive consultation between Memphis, TN safety officials, FedExForum venue staff, and AMERICAN IDOL producers, it has been determined that due to the extensive disaster relief efforts currently being coordinated in that city, the AMERICAN IDOL auditions scheduled for Monday, Sept. 5, will need to be cancelled.

The city of Memphis has taken on the responsibility of taking in tens of thousands of refugees from Hurricane Katrina, and out of respect for the city's citizens, their public services, and the need to focus public safety efforts on the victims, this decision was made.

The producers of AMERICAN IDOL extend their thanks to the city of Memphis, and will hopefully be able to return there next season. Another audition city for this season will be announced shortly.

Auditions will continue next week in Denver, CO (September 11, Invesco Field), followed by Chicago, IL on September 16 (Soldier Field). The next season of AMERICAN IDOL will begin in January 2006.

Fourteen-time Emmy-nominated AMERICAN IDOL is created and executive-produced by Simon Fuller, founder of 19 Entertainment; and executive-produced by Cecile Frot-Coutaz, CEO, FremantleMedia North America, Inc.; Nigel Lythgoe, President, 19 Television; and Ken Warwick, Executive Producer, FremantleMedia North America, Inc.