'American Idol' Judges Celebrate the Show's 20th Anniversary After Top 14 Reveal

Can you believe it has been 20 years since American Idol premiered?!

The show’s current judges – Katy Perry, Luke Bryan, and Lionel Richie – stepped out for a 20th anniversary celebration on Monday night (April 18) at Desert 5 Spot in Los Angeles.

The party took place after the Top 14 reveal on season 20.

On the red carpet, Katy talked about what it’s like to work with the contestants.

Click inside to read more…

“I feel like, every season, artists see us and they are trusting us more and more,” she told Entertainment Tonight. “The real world out there is not easy, and you can’t be too soft.”

“I like to be firm and fair and fun and hopeful and supporting, but don’t lie to them. Because they need the help,” she added. “I keep people around who say no to me all the time, or debate me all the time, and that’s a real big key to success.”

Click through the gallery for 10+ photos from the event…