Ryan Seacrest welcomes us to “the party of the century.”

It’s time forAmerican Idolto throw that fake ID away.

On Sunday, the long-running competition turns 21 in both years and seasons.

Luke Bryan, Katy Perry, and Lionel Richie celebrate 21 years of ‘American Idol’

Luke Bryan, Katy Perry, and Lionel Richie celebrate 21 years of ‘American Idol’.ABC

Then again, we don’t come toAmerican Idolfor its subtlety.

You only turn 21 once.)

American Idol

‘American Idol’ star Katy Perry.ABC/Mark Seliger

American Idol

‘American Idol’ star Lionel Richie.ABC/Mark Seliger

American Idol

‘American Idol’ star Luke Bryan.ABC/Mark Seliger

American Idol

‘American Idol’ host Ryan Seacrest.ABC/Mark Seliger