‘American Idol’ spreads Christmas cheer

“American Idol” can do more than provide the soundtrack for a holiday celebration.

To promote the upcoming 12th season of the hit show, Fox has dispatched “Idol”-themed gift wrappers to malls across the country, where they will provide free services through Christmas Eve.

Wrapping stations are set up at Westchester Mall in New York, Beverly Center in Los Angeles, Orland Square Mall in Chicago, Lenox Square Mall in Atlanta, and Grapevine Mills Mall in Dallas.

The wrapping paper is branded with “Idol’s” name and network.

While shoppers wait for their packages to be wrapped, they can watch clips from the upcoming season, which features new judges Keith Urban, Nicki Minaj and Mariah Carey.

Fox is also accepting donations on behalf of the Red Cross for Hurricane Sandy Relief efforts.

“Idol” premieres on Jan. 16.

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