American Idol wrapped up season 23 in May 2025, but we're still celebrating the show's latest winner, Jamal Roberts!
As folks watched Jamal, John Foster, and Breanna Nix all sing their hearts out during the season finale of the ABC series, they also waited to see how judges Carrie Underwood, Luke Bryan, and Lionel Richie would react to their epic performances. In the end, though, only one could emerge victorious — and that was none other than Jamal.
Now, folks are gearing up for another season American Idol. With new contestants and plenty of surprises in store, here's everything fans need to know about the future of the show in 2026.
Is American Idol coming back for season 24 in 2026?
You bet it is!
American Idol surprised fans by revealing epic news ahead of the season 23 finale. Sharing a post on the show's Instagram, folks learned American Idol will return for season 9 (season 24 overall) in 2026.
"Dim the lights... here we go," read the official caption back in May 2025. "#AmericanIdol is coming back for another season! 🎶."
When folks saw the news of this incredible feat for American Idol, they were immediately ecstatic about the show's return.
"That is awesome news! I don’t want the show to ever be cancelled," one person exclaimed in the comments. "Such great news!! The next crop of Idols will be awesome too!!" another declared. "One of my favorite shows ever 😍," a different viewer added.
Who are the contestants for American Idol season 24?
While it's going to take time before we know who will compete on American Idol, aspiring singers can audition for the upcoming season 24.
Thanks to a video post on American Idol's Instagram on May 20, the show got season 23 winner Jamal to share how his trajectory on the show changed his life. And now, there's a chance for another singer's life to be altered as well.
"You could be the next American Idol!" he stated in the clip at the time. "So, go sign up on americanidol.com/auditions."
Who are the judges on American Idol season 24?
In an exciting announcement posted on Instagram on August 25, folks learned Carrie Underwood, Luke Bryan, and Lionel Richie will all return as judges for American Idol season 24.
This announcement? It’s getting a gold star," the caption read. "Luke, Carrie, and Lionel are BACK and Idol Across America auditions start this week! What are you waiting for?? Register now!"
Naturally, seeing this news had longtime fans excited by the prospect.
"Love these 3 together!" one person wrote in the comments. "Yay!!!!! They are all good judges!" another exclaimed. "So glad Carrie and the guys are coming back!! ❤️," a different follower added.
Fans may remember how Carrie replaced Katy Perry after the latter announced her exit from American Idol in early 2024. Carrie also famously has history with American Idol, having won the show's season 4 back in 2005. She actually revisited her time on the show in her "Idol to Icon" YouTube series, while also singing past songs she performed as a contestant.
How can I watch and stream American Idol season 24?
When the time comes for fans to tune into American Idol season 24 in 2026, they will be able to watch every Sunday night at 8 p.m. ET on ABC.
If you don't have access to a TV, the show offers multiple options to watch in real-time. Along with the ability to watch on ABC's website, there are live-streaming sites that offer viewers a chance to see the show as it airs live. Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, Sling and FuboTV are all great options to choose from — just remember you'll need to sign up and make an account before new episodes premiere.
If you're the type who'd rather watch American Idol when you have the time to do so, the show will also stream on Hulu the next day. If you don't have a profile, the site has plans that begin at $9.99 per month (or $99.99 per year). When you're all set up, you can head on over to Hulu's website or the Hulu app and start watching whenever you want.
