American Idol season 9 on ABC is getting ready, and now we know which of the judges from season 8 will return. There were a few rumors that one would leave, but it turns out we really shouldn’t pay much attention to rumors a lot of the time.
The ninth season marks the 24th overall. There have been many changes in the judging panel over the years, with American Idol season 8 on ABC seeing the departure of Katy Perry and former American Idol winner Carrie Underwood taking her spot. The only consistent member of the team has been the host, and that’s not expected to change this year.
All the American Idol season 8 judges are coming back
In some not-so-surprising news, all three judges from season 8 are coming back, according to Deadline. This is despite the rumors that Underwood could be stepping away. It’s a great thing having Underwood on the show, as she understands the pressure the contestants face on a series like this, offering empathy rather than just sympathy when things get tough. She is also the best-selling Idol alum, according to Variety.
Auditions have started as of Tuesday, Aug. 26, as the three singers search for the next big star. Luke Bryan, Lionel Richie, and Carrie Underwood took part in a special video to share the kick-off of the search across all 50 states.
The first date is the “First 900” VIP Event, and then the trio will head to the south, the Midwest, and across other parts of the United States, with a Nationwide open call to take place on Wednesday, Sept. 24. However, these dates are subject to change.
Is Ryan Seacrest returning for American Idol season 9?
Someone who hasn’t been confirmed as returning is the one who has been with the show since its conception on FOX. Ryan Seacrest has been the host of the series from the beginning, and right now, he isn’t confirmed as being part of the show. However, don’t worry too much, as he is expected to return, but he just doesn’t have a closed deal right now.
There is still time for this, as while the auditions have started, Seacrest isn’t arguably needed until a little later in the production. American Idol season 9 is being held for the midseason, with a January 2026 premiere expected across the Disney network.
American Idol season 9 auditions are now underway ready for a January 2026 start.