American Idol is set to return with its 24th season, titled “American Idol University,” premiering on Monday, January 26, 2026, at 8 p.m. PT/ET. Fans of the beloved singing competition can catch the action as it unfolds weekly on ABC. For those looking to stream the episodes live, services such as DirecTV, Fubo, Sling, and Hulu + Live TV will be available options, each offering new subscribers enticing free trials.
The premiere will kick off with a two-hour episode titled “Auditions, Part 1,” and continues a weekly schedule featuring two-hour episodes, particularly focusing on the audition phase for the first four weeks. Viewers who miss the live airing can also stream the new episodes on-demand the following day via Hulu and Disney+ with Hulu.
For viewers eager to explore streaming options, DirecTV is providing a five-day free trial across its signature packages, starting at just $19.99 per month. Fubo also offers a similar five-day free trial for newcomers, with initial plans beginning at $45.99 for the first month, while subsequent months will cost $55.99. Sling has enticing offers as well, beginning with its Blue Plan for $45.99 monthly or a drastically reduced rate to $33 for the first month if opting for the combined Orange & Blue plan.
As the anticipation grows for the new season, American Idol continues to captivate audiences, inviting them to witness the next wave of extraordinary talent. The show’s return not only promises entertainment but also a chance for new artists to shine, adding a fresh chapter to the iconic series.