Simon: "Strongest 12 we've ever had..."

Simon Cowell is saying that this season of “American Idol” “will be the strongest 12 we’ve ever had, and I’ve never, ever said that before.”

One of those 12 will not be Fantasia’s older brother, Ricco Barrino. According to reports, he made it to Hollywood Week (which is being filmed this week), but was cut early…

Remember that “Idol” premieres Tuesday, January 15th at 8 p.m. on FOX…