ABC is officially keeping the music playing, announcing that American Idol will return for a milestone 25th season overall-and its 10th season since making the jump from Fox. But while fans can celebrate the renewal, one big question still hangs in the air: will judges Luke Bryan, Carrie Underwood, and Lionel Richie all be back behind the panel?
The network confirmed the long-running singing competition will return during the 2026-27 television season following a strong ratings rebound. The latest season averaged 7.08 million cross-platform viewers over seven days, marking an impressive 11% increase over the previous year and proving the iconic talent show still has plenty of life left after nearly a quarter-century on television.
As has become tradition, ABC stopped short of confirming the return of host Ryan Seacrest or judges Luke Bryan, Lionel Richie, and Carrie Underwood. Industry insiders, however, expect the popular lineup to return, with official contract announcements typically arriving several weeks after the renewal is revealed.
Still, the silence has sparked speculation among fans. Bryan and Richie have now spent nine seasons judging on ABC, tying Simon Cowell's run on the original series, while Carrie Underwood has quickly become a fan favourite since joining the panel. Although many expect the trio to return, no deals have been publicly finalised.
Some entertainment observers believe ABC has little reason to shake things up after this year's success. The current judging panel has delivered stability, broad audience appeal, and advertiser confidence, helping the show maintain its place as one of television's biggest family-friendly entertainment franchises despite changing viewing habits.
Meanwhile, hopeful contestants can already begin preparing for their shot at stardom. Virtual auditions for Season 25 will open on Aug. 25 and continue through late September, giving aspiring singers from all 50 states and Washington, D.C., the opportunity to impress producers before advancing to later rounds.
The most recent season crowned country singer Hannah Harper as champion, and with a landmark anniversary season now on the horizon, expectations are already soaring for what promises to be one of American Idol's biggest years yet.
