The Canadian press reports auditions for CTV’s new ‘Canadian Idol’ series have been scheduled for seven cities beginning in April, but judge Simon Cowell will not be on the panel.

“He’s tied up with the American show until the end of May,” said Rick Lewchuk, CTV’s senior vice-president of program planning and promotion.

Meanwhile, Canadian stars like Avril Lavigne, Velvet Empire and more are said to be very excited at the news that Canada’s going to have its very own idol.

Velvet Empire said they all felt very happy at the prospect of seeing and following the show religiously.

Avril was quoted as saying “It’s going to be interesting. It’ll be fun to watch.”