American Idol Returns with Bryan, Richie and Underwood for 2026

American Idol will return with its familiar judging panel for the 2026 season, as Luke Bryan, Lionel Richie and Carrie Underwood have signed on to continue on ABC and Hulu for the show’s 24th season overall and ninth on the network. The official announcement confirms the trio will remain in place, while the fate of host Ryan Seacrest remains unsettled, with no confirmation of his participation in the forthcoming cycle. Auditions will begin later this year under the Idol Across America umbrella, offering a virtual nationwide search that spans all 50 states plus Washington, D.C., and will also include open calls in multiple regions.

The return of Bryan and Richie, who joined the program in 2018, alongside Underwood—who joined last season after winning the competition in 2005—signals continuity for a series broader in reach than ever. Katy Perry’s departure ahead of Season 23 brought Underwood into the judge’s chair, a move that helped anchor a renewed judging dynamic. Bryan described the experience of working with his fellow judges as “incredible,” emphasizing that the focus should stay on enjoying the process and supporting the contestants. Underwood, reflecting on her own arc...