Adam Lambert has returned to the where it all began, but this time with more authority.

On Oct. 13, E!'s new series called "Clash of the Cover Bands" premieres, and Adam is a judge. The reality competition was actually filmed on the same stage where "American Idol" was shot back when Adam was a contestant during season 8 in 2009.
"It was so crazy because we filmed this show on the same exact stage and studio as 'American Idol,'" the 39-year-old told E!. "So walking backstage into the studio every day was just so surreal. That was what, 12 years ago? That's where everything started for me."
Back in 2009, Adam finished as the runner-up to Kris Allen, but you could certainly argue the Queen frontman has had a more prolific post-Idol career.
"That was very cool. I enjoyed that full circle," he said of being back on that particular stage. "And it made me keep in mind that when you get up on stage and you perform and you give it your all and you're putting yourself out there to be commented on by three people at a desk in front of you, it's not always the easiest thing."

Despite now being a judge, Adam is bringing that "Idol" experience with him when critiquing the performers.
"It's tricky and it takes a lot of bravery," he said of performing before a judging panel of pros. "I definitely kept all that in mind when I was talking to the different performers and tried to be constructive and yet sensitive to the journey. I think everything was really a good sport."