The ABC competition program “American Idol” has added an official in-house mentor, with the announcement Monday that radio DJ, comedian and best-selling author Bobby Bones is joining the show.

“Last season, Bobby joined the Top 24 Idol hopefuls as they prepared to take the stage with their all-star celebrity duet partners,” ABC said in its announcement. “In his expanded role this season, the award-winning personality will offer his industry expertise throughout the competition, helping contenders reach the next level of their artistry and performances.”

The announcement adds: “Inducted into the National Radio Hall of Fame as the youngest honoree ever, Bobby Bones has been dubbed ‘the most powerful man in country music’ (Forbes). His nationally syndicated radio show ‘The Bobby Bones Show’ reaches millions of listeners on nearly 140 stations and recently garnered its third ACM Award for National On-Air Personality of the Year, also earning a 2017 Country Music Association award for National Broadcast Personality of the Year. His popular podcast, ‘BobbyCast,’ recently surpassed 100 episodes and has been downloaded more than 6 million times. Bobby is also a two-time New York Times No. 1 best-selling author, touring stand-up comedian, philanthropist and chart-topping comedy artist — a true ‘jack of all trades’ (ESPN).”

“American Idol” returns to ABC for the 2018-2019 season after a successful launch on the network during the 2017-2018 season. The show features all-star judges Luke Bryan, Katy Perry and Lionel Richie, with Ryan Seacrest back as host.

“American Idol” is produced by Fremantle and Industrial Media’s 19 Entertainment. Executive producers include Fremantle’s Trish Kinane, also serving as showrunner; Megan Wolflick; and Chris Anokute, representing Industrial Media.