The American Idol Experience to close in January 2015

The American Idol Experience at Disney's Hollywood Studios theme park is closing in January 2015.

Walt Disney World Resort, FremantleMedia and 19 Entertainment released a joint statement:

After more than five successful years, The American Idol Experience will be coming to a close at Disney’s Hollywood Studios theme park in January 2015. Our partnership with FremantleMedia and 19 Entertainment has been a great addition to the park and we are very appreciative of the amazing cast and guests who have devoted their time and talent to make this experience special and memorable. We are incredibly proud of the more than 2,000 Dream Tickets that have given guests a chance to live their very own Cinderella story and audition for ‘American Idol’. This past season alone, three of the Top 13 contestants were originally discovered through The American Idol Experience and we expect the attraction to continue providing top contestants for ‘American Idol’ XIV in the coming year.

Wow, truly the end of an era. The American Idol Experience discovered so much talent for the American Idol TV show over the years. I wonder why they would let it go just like that. As the press release said, three of the Top 13 contestants from Season 13 original came from The American Idol Experience!

Hopefully this will not hamper Idol's future search for talent after Season 14 next year.

H/T: Attractions Magazine