 In May 2014, Ryan Seacrest signed a two-year extension to remain host of "Idol" through 2016, which would be the show's final season.Long-time sponsor Coca-Cola ended its relationship with the series, and the Ford Motor Company maintained a reduced role.To evaluate their ability to perform in front of a live audience, the final 48 contestants participated in a private concert at the House of Blues in West Hollywood before being cut to 24.