Fox announced a start up date for "American Idol," "'Touch" and "The Following."

The network has set premiere dates for the 12th season of American Idol, which will kick off with a two-night event on Jan. 16 and 17.

Network execs are hopeful that the buzz surrounding new judges Mariah Carey, Nicki Minaj and Keith Urban will translate to big ratings for "American Idol."

The following Monday, Jan. 21, will see the debut of the Kevin Bacon-James Purefoy psychological thriller "The Following." And on Friday, Feb. 1, Fox will roll out its ratings-challenged Kiefer Sutherland effort, "Touch," for its second season.