'American Idol' is back and judges know you don't have to win to become a star

"American Idol" host Ryan Seacrest with judges Lionel Richie, Katy Perry and Luke Bryan. (ABC/Craig Sjodin)

"American Idol" returns on Sunday at 8 p.m. on Channel 2!

"American Idol" is back for an all-new season!

Judges Luke Bryan, Katy Perry and Lionel Richie revealed on "GMA" that this year's pool of talented contestants "really showed up," noting that the singing competition is "not always about the person who wins."

Perry said even past runner-ups have gone on to do amazing things.

"It is called 'American Idol' not 'American Idols' and some of these kids that have made it to the top -- they all deserve that spot," Perry said on "GMA."

"History says maybe it's not about the person that wins," Perry said.

Richie chimed in, "I tell people every day you got to be very aware of the fact that No. 1 means you have to be famous now."

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