‘American Idol’ picks only one California city for auditions. Close enough, Fresno?

“American Idol” is starting back up with auditions around the country beginning next month.

Which means you still have a chance to practice and get on the show – whether you’re a good, great or horrendous singer.

But if you’re looking to try out in California, be ready to wait for a long time.

Auditions will be held in 19 cities throughout the country.

Only one of those, however, is in California.

That’s in Oakland, at Jack London Square (472 Water Street, Oakland, CA 94607) on Aug. 20.

The next most convenient locations for those in the Fresno area is Denver on Aug. 26 or Portland on Aug. 17.

Based on flight schedules set in late July, there typically are five flights per day that leave from Fresno Yosemite International to Denver International and one that goes directly to Portland International.

“American Idol” pioneered reality TV competition with its singing performances on Fox beginning in 2002, turning the likes of eventual winners Kelly Clarkson and Carrie Underwood into household names.

But as ratings dropped over the years, the show appeared to have run its course. Its 15th and supposed final season wrapped up with a final episode April 7, 2016.

Then this year, ABC announced it would re-boot the show, possibly with a Disney-like feel, with the episodes to air in 2018.

The first audition for the upcoming season on ABC (which is owned by Disney) will be in Orlando, where Disney World is located.

Those looking to audition must be at least 15 and no older than 28. There are other eligibility requirements, too, which can be found here.

There is no prerequisite skill level, though.

Just look at some auditions from past seasons.

Are you good – or bad – enough to stand out and make the TV cut?

Do you have the talent to become the next “American Idol?”

America will be watching, again. Just on a different channel this time.

This story was originally published July 27, 2017 at 10:42 PM with the headline "‘American Idol’ picks only one California city for auditions. Close enough, Fresno?."