It’s Official! Ryan Seacrest Returns to American Idol for Season 24
ABC/Disney has confirmed that Ryan Seacrest will return as the host of American Idol for its 24th season. The announcement follows earlier news that judges Lionel Richie, Carrie Underwood and Luke Bryan would all be back at the judges’ table, ensuring that the familiar lineup of the show’s long-running personalities will lead the next season.
Seacrest has been the face of American Idol since the show began, making him the only person to appear in all 24 seasons. His continued role as host provides continuity for viewers and contestants alike as the series heads into its next chapter on ABC and streaming via Hulu. Season 24 is slated to premiere midseason 2026.
The network’s announcement was part of a broader update celebrating the show’s performance on ABC. Over its eight seasons on the network, American Idol has consistently ranked among the top unscripted series. According to ABC’s press release, last season’s finale was No. 1 for the night and No. 1 for the week in primetime, while delivering the program’s best Total Viewer audience in two years.
American Idol has ranked as a top unscripted series during its eight seasons on ABC
Beyond linear ratings, American Idol continues to perform strongly across social platforms. The series was noted as the No. 1 Most Social Reality Series on television in 2025, generating over 1.65 billion social video views for the year. The show’s cultural impact is also reflected in the post-show success of its contestants; for example, Season 8 winner Jamal Roberts saw his debut single “Heal” reach No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Gospel chart in May 2025.
With Season 24 approaching, auditions are already underway. The production has revived “Idol Across America,” a live virtual nationwide search that allows hopefuls to audition for producers from anywhere in the country. This virtual option opens the door for contestants in all 50 states and Washington, D.C., to showcase their talents remotely and potentially advance to the in-person judge auditions.
In addition to virtual auditions, the program will hold open call dates where singers can audition in person. Auditions are open to eligible contestants worldwide, and participants may choose either a virtual date or attend one of the open calls. The audition process is designed to make it as accessible as possible so that talent from diverse communities has a chance to be seen and heard.
“Idol Across America” auditions will be held as follows (subject to change):
- Alaska, California, Hawaii, Nevada, Washington (Sep 9)
- Florida, Michigan, Virginia, West Virginia (Sep 11)
- East Coast open call (Sep 12)
- The South open call (Sep 15)
- Illinois, Iowa, Minnesota, Missouri, Wisconsin (Sep 16)
- West and Midwest open call (Sep 18)
- Delaware, Maryland, Massachusetts, Ohio, Rhode Island, Vermont, Washington, D.C. (Sep 19)
- Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah, Wyoming (Sep 22)
- Nationwide open call (Sep 24)
Anyone interested in auditioning can register to virtually audition in front of an American Idol producer. Contenders are allowed to audition on any “Idol Across America” date regardless of where they live. For the most up-to-date information on eligibility, submission forms, specific dates and terms and conditions, potential contestants should consult the official audition page at americanidol.com/auditions.
As production gears up, viewers can expect the familiar energy that comes with the show’s mix of hopeful new talent and seasoned television personalities. With Ryan Seacrest confirmed to return alongside judges Lionel Richie, Carrie Underwood and Luke Bryan, season 24 aims to continue American Idol’s tradition of discovering new stars and creating memorable television moments.