‘American Idol’ judges Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan.Photo:Eric McCandless/ABC via Getty
Eric McCandless/ABC via Getty
American Idolis returning just in time for spring, and season 23 will mark a homecoming for the show’s newest judge:Carrie Underwood.
Carrie — who won season 4 of the singing competition two decades earlier — joins judgesLionel RichieandLuke Bryanand longtime hostRyan Seacrestfor the 2025 season, making it the first time anAmerican Idolalum has made their way from the stageto the judge’s table.
This is a “full circle moment” for both Carrie and viewers, said Craig Erwich, the president of Disney Television Group,in a statement. “As a former Idol and dynamic musical force, she brings a remarkably unique perspective to one of the most popular shows on television," he added. “Welcome home, Carrie.”
Now, she’ll share her thoughts and notes with hopefuls across America trying to earn a ticket to Hollywood and ultimately, to the finals. With the latest crowned idolAbi Carterreleasingher debut albumand going on tour since clinching the win in May 2024, it’s time to find the next powerful voice.
Here’s everything to know aboutAmerican Idol’s 2025 season, including when it will premiere, how to watch the new episodes and the latest details about the series' return.
Luke Bryan, Carrie Underwood, Lionel Richie and Ryan Seacrest on ‘American Idol’ 2025.Disney/Eric McCandless
Disney/Eric McCandless
American Idolseason 23 premieres on March 9 at 8 p.m. on ABC.
After the reality competition showkicked off its auditionsin August 2024, the judges traveled to different corners of the U.S., stopping at cities and towns over several weeks.
American Idolfans will get a preview of the upcoming season on March 2, when ABC airs a special after the97th Oscars, which may be around 10:30 p.m. or so. While it won’t be a full episode, fans can watch 30 minutes of Carrie stepping into her new role and a few of the early rounds of auditions, according toThe Hollywood Reporter.
‘American Idol’ 2025 judges Lionel Riche, Carrie Underwood and Luke Bryan.American Idol
American Idol
Five years after Lionel, Luke andKaty Perrywere tapped tojudgeAmerican Idolseason 16, the trio stuck together for a number of installments until season 22. In February 2024, Katyannounced she was leavingthe series and teased new music during an appearance onJimmy Kimmel Live!.
Speaking to the morning news program, she spoke about what kind of judge she would be, and the “Before He Cheats” vocalist shared that she was always honest but strived to be helpful.
Most recently, the singing competition seriesshared a teasershowing Carrie entering the audition room back in 2005, cut with new footage of the country singer approaching the judge’s table.
In the preview, Carrie, Lionel and Luke watch people audition and when the “Some Hearts” singer asks one contestant who her musical inspirations are. The woman responds, “I’m looking at her.”
However, the new season ofAmerican Idolseems to have also prompted Lionel, Luke and Ryan to go down memory lane as well. On New Year’s Eve 2024, the showposted a clipon its Instagram, featuring snippets of their early career days.
“You never forget that moment that changed everything,” Luke said.
Luke Bryan, Lionel Richie, Carrie Underwood and Ryan Seacrest on October 02, 2024 in New York City.Mike Coppola/Getty
Mike Coppola/Getty
Although there hasn’t been too much shared about season 23’s contestants, the judges gave a preview of what viewers can expect in anInstagram video postedin November 2024.
“We are finding some incredible talent,” Carrie said, adding she’s loving being on the show as a judge.
Meanwhile, Luke shared that he was “starting to fall in love” with the new group, and Lionel further teased the “out of this world” talent.
Luke Bryan, Katy Perry, Abi Carter and Lionel Richie on the ‘American Idol’ season 22 finale in May 2024.Disney/Eric McCandless
Abi Carterwas crowned the winner during the season 22 finale, which aired in May 2024.
She concluded her run with a performance of her own original song, “This Isn’t Over,” and a version ofBillie Eilish’s “What Was I Made For?”
It was a sweet moment for Abi and judges Lionel, Luke and Katy because Abi sang the same ballad at her audition.
“Thank you for being an example of singing from your heart,” Katy said. “What were you made for? You were made for this. 100%.”
For those who can’t watch episodes in real time, catch up on Hulu the next day.
source: people.com