After learning about all these different cancellations from various TV networks, we finally have some good news. ABC is bringing back American Idol and four other fan-favorite unscripted shows for the 2025-2026 season, proving that some staples are just too good to let go. Now, this is the type of news you want to hear on a Friday afternoon!
American Idol is currently on its twenty-third season overall and its eighth season on ABC. The seventeenth episode of the current season is set to air on ABC this Sunday. With there only being a few episodes left, fans were wondering when, or if, a renewal announcement would come. Thankfully, ABC has now confirmed that the beloved singing competition will return for another installment. This put any fears of cancellation to rest.
Honestly, was anyone really concerned that American Idol would be going anywhere? With its consistent ratings, passionate fanbase, and legacy as one of the most successful reality shows in TV history, its renewal feels more like a formality than a surprise. We can't wait to see what new talent the next season will uncover! The current judging panel includes Lionel Richie, Luke Bryan, and Carrie Underwood, with Ryan Seacrest serving as host. Although their return hasn't been officially confirmed, they're expected to all be back for American Idol season 24 or season 9 if you're only referring to the ABC era of the show.
ABC also announced renewals for several other popular unscripted shows, including Shark Tank, Celebrity Wheel of Fortune, Celebrity Jeopardy!, and America’s Funniest Home Videos. Shark Tank revolves around entrepreneurs pitching their business ideas to a panel of wealthy investors who then decide whether to invest their own money in their companies. The reality series is currently airing its sixteenth season on ABC, with the season finale scheduled to air on May 16. With its renewal, Shark Tank season 17 is officially happening!
ABC has renewed the hit game show Celebrity Wheel of Fortune for a sixth season. When it returns, we'll see more celebrities taking their turn at the wheel, trying to solve puzzles and win big for their chosen charities. Ken Jennings is the current host. Then, there's Celebrity Jeopardy!, which is confirmed to be returning for a fourth season. When this game show returns, viewers will once again see beloved celebrities competing in a battle of wits to answer trivia questions across various categories, all while raising money for charity. Pat Sajak and Vanna White are currently hosting the series.
Last but not least is America's Funniest Home Videos, one of the longest-running and most beloved shows in television history. It will be back for a thirty-sixth season on ABC. Get ready to laugh until you can't laugh anymore as the show returns with a new collection of hilarious, heartwarming, and occasionally wild home videos. Alfonso Ribeiro hosts this unscripted comedy series.
With all of these amazing renewals, ABC is clearly committed to keeping viewers entertained with a diverse lineup of engaging and exciting content. Here's to even more renewals ahead!