Seacrest on 'Idol': There's Only One Original

By

ET caught up with American Idol originals Ryan Seacrest and Randy Jackson at the show's 12th season premiere screening in Los Angeles Wednesday night, where they addressed why the hit Fox show remains so highly-rated despite the arrival of similar talent-based reality competitions like The Voice and America's Got Talent.

"There's only one original," Seacrest puts simply.

Video: Nicki Minaj on 'Idol' Drama -- There is No Feud

"This is the Picasso to me," Jackson adds. "The first one of its kind, still the best of its kind, so there can be copies -- but you're never going to beat the Picasso."

Seacrest further points out that Idol has a proven track record of creating music superstars, such as chart-toppers Kelly Clarkson and Carrie Underwood.

"We also have a legacy of success. The artists that come on this show -- I just played the number one record Phillip Phillips today on the radio -- we've got proof that this works."

Video: Mariah on 'Messy' 'Idol' Moments with Nicki

The busy television personality also took some time out to address his girlfriend Julianne Hough's recent revelation that she was "mentally and physically" abused as a child.

"She's very, very courageous and I'm proud of her," he says.

Check out the video to hear how new judge Keith Urban and wife Nicole Kidman plan to prepare for this Sunday's Golden Globes, in which both are nominated!

American Idol season 12 premieres next Wednesday, January 16, on Fox.