American Idol 2026: Everything You Need to Know

It's been almost a year since we could enjoy some light-hearted banter between Luke Bryan, Lionel Richie and Carrie Underwood, and see a group of aspiring vocalists battle it out to become the next American Idol. But thankfully, the wait is over.

American Idol returns tonight (Monday, January 26th) for Season 24 - or, alternatively, Season 9, if we're just counting the ABC years. The 2025 judging trio has been kept the same, and honestly, we're not mad about it, because there's a lovely sense of camaraderie between Bryan, Richie and Underwood, with Bryan usually ending up as the class clown, bringing a welcome sense of levity to the screen.

Ryan Seacrest returns as well as the longstanding host of American Idol, with the premiere set to air tonight at 8/7c on ABC. The next day, it will be available to stream via Hulu. New episodes will air on Mondays on ABC at the same time, every week. The finale premiere date is yet to be unveiled, but is expected to be sometime in May.

Although the judging and hosting line-up are the same as last year, there are a few changes being implemented for the 2026 instalment of the wildly popular TV talent show.

For instance, social media voting is being introduced in an attempt to appeal to Gen-Z and Gen-Alpha. In addition, the traditional Hollywood Week will given a country twist, as it'll be taking place in Nashville as part of a blockbuster Music City Takeover. We're already dreaming up some fun special guests from the country world.

There's also the exciting new ‘Ohana Round, which is staged at the Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa in Ko Olina and will carry over into a joyful, summery three-episode arc.

After Jamal Roberts’ momentous victory in Season 23, we can't wait to dive into the next series of tear-jerking back-stories, rousing surprises and star-making performances.

For more on Luke Bryan, see below: