It's been months since we last saw a new episode of American Idol, and sadly, the drought isn't about to end anytime soon. After an incredible twenty-third season that saw Jamal Roberts come on top as the winner, American Idol is reportedly slated to return with its twenty-fourth installment on ABC in early 2026. While this is unfortunate for fans wanting to catch new performances sooner, excitement is already brewing over the judging panel for the upcoming season.
When ABC announced the season 24 renewal of the long-running singing competition series back in May 2025, the network did not share whether any of the judges from the previous season would be returning or if fans could expect a surprise shake-up. Now we finally have some answers.
According to Deadline, season 23 judges Luke Bryan, Lionel Richie, and Carrie Underwood are all confirmed to return for American Idol season 24. This keeps the judging panel consistent and familiar to viewers. Since the show’s revival on ABC with its sixteenth season in 2018, Bryan and Richie have held spots on the judging panel.
Underwood joined the panel last season when Katy Perry decided to depart the series to dedicate time to her career in music and her own goals. The singer-songwriter previously won the fourth season of American Idol, so she was the perfect addition to offer contestants firsthand insight into the pressures and triumphs of the competition.
While the judges have been officially announced, it's unknown if Ryan Seacrest will return as host for season 24. Although he has been the face of the series for all previous 23 seasons, no official deal has been confirmed yet for a twenty-fourth installment. However, Deadline reports that it has learned from insiders that he is expected to come back.
American Idol season 24 auditions are reportedly set to begin on Tuesday, Aug. 26, 2025. The auditions are part of Idol Across America, which is a live, virtual talent search that anyone in the U.S., including Washington, D.C., can participate in. Bryan, Richie, and Underwood helped launch the auditions by appearing in a special video promoting the event. You can check it out down below.
Although an official premiere date for American Idol season 24 hasn't been revealed yet, there's a good chance that it will keep the same Monday and Sunday nights at 8:00 p.m. ET time slot. We'll get back to you with the exact premiere date as soon as ABC makes it official.