What's Going to Happen on Wednesday?

The world of “Idol” is about to change completely.

It changed a little last season with the absence of Paula Abdul and the addition of Ellen DeGeneres. But this will be the big one as Simon’s gone and we get two—maybe three—new judges. Those judges will be introduced at a press conference Wednesday. But I think we’re in store for more changes than just judges…

Returning executive producer Nigel Lythgoe has made it clear in a number of interviews that he wants to return the focus to the contestants. And he’s expressed concern over singers being eliminated because of song choice.

So here’s my theory on what I think will happen—whether it’s announced Wednesday or later…

I think the judges will become more like mentors, a la Simon Cowell’s “The X Factor.” Think of it as “Idol” beating Simon to the punch. I think the judges will have a say in song choice and maybe even arrangements—especially now that Rickey Minor is gone as well.

But that’s totally my theory. I have nothing to back it up, other than my gut. And my belief that the show didn’t bring Nigel back for nothing. They must have liked some of the ideas he was sharing in the press. And on the heels of the show’s worst season ever, I believe they’ll let him implement those ideas.

What do you think? Are you expecting big changes to be announced? Or do you think the show will remain the same? Post your comments below.