Lionel Richie, Carrie Underwood, and Luke Bryan are set to return as judges for the much-anticipated season 24 of American Idol, which will premiere on ABC on Monday, January 26, at 8 p.m. ET. This new season promises exciting changes, including a revamped Hollywood Week setup that will be taking place in Nashville, transforming the competition experience for the aspiring singers.
Ryan Seacrest returns as the host, guiding contestants as they audition for the coveted opportunity to win a recording contract and a remarkable $250,000 prize. Unlike previous seasons, which typically launched in late February or March, season 24 will debut earlier this year, giving fans something to look forward to.
All three judges are eager to bring their unique experiences to the table. Underwood, who claimed victory in season 4, joined the judging panel last year, stepping in for Katy Perry. Prior to her return, she revisited her idol journey by connecting with fellow past contestants and rewatching her own performances to refine her judging style. Underwood acknowledged the significant evolution of the show, noting the pressures contestants face in today’s spotlight compared to her own experience.
Richie emphasized a shift in the judging approach, focusing on fostering a supportive environment rather than offering harsh critiques. He expressed that the goal is to encourage contestants and help them develop their talents, regardless of whether they advance in the competition. “It’s not just a talent show; it’s about helping them grow,” he remarked, expressing pride in witnessing former contestants achieve stardom after their time on the show.
This season, American Idol is implementing “Hollywood Week: Music City Takeover,” which will condense the usual multi-round competition into a single round, promising to heighten the stakes with what ABC describes as the “biggest Hollywood Week cut in Idol history.”
To build excitement for the new season, a playful trailer was released, showcasing the judges in matching royal blue jackets exploring an imaginary American Idol University, reminiscing about the show’s numerous achievements and its influential alumni. The promotional video culminates in a montage of auditions and judges’ praises for outstanding singers, setting the stage for another captivating season of discovering musical talent.
Fans can catch American Idol on ABC, with new episodes also made available for streaming on Hulu the following day. As the music competition gears up for its latest installment, it looks to continue its legacy of transforming hopeful contestants into stars, all while providing viewers with unforgettable entertainment.