Story perspectives

ABC Announces American Idol's 25th Season Return in 2027

7/30/2026

Summary

Story summary

ABC announced on July 29, 2026 that American Idol will return for its 25th overall season in 2027.
Auditions for Season 25 begin on Aug. 25, 2026 with the virtual “Idol Across America” search and open-call dates through Sept. 28.
Season 24 averaged 7.08 million cross-platform viewers over seven days, an 11 percent increase from the prior year.
Industry sources say judges Luke Bryan, Lionel Richie and Carrie Underwood are expected to return, while host Ryan Seacrest’s contract remains unconfirmed.

History

Historical Context

In 2002 Fox launched American Idol, created by Simon Fuller and hosted by Ryan Seacrest; it dominated U.S. ratings for eight straight seasons (2003-2011). After a 2016 cancellation and a 2018 ABC revival, the series was renewed on July 29 2026 for a 25th season, retaining its judge-host format with Luke Bryan, Lionel Richie and Carrie Underwood.

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Story summary

ABC announced on July 29, 2026 that American Idol will return for its 25th overall season in 2027.
Auditions for Season 25 begin on Aug. 25, 2026 with the virtual “Idol Across America” search and open-call dates through Sept. 28.
Season 24 averaged 7.08 million cross-platform viewers over seven days, an 11 percent increase from the prior year.
Industry sources say judges Luke Bryan, Lionel Richie and Carrie Underwood are expected to return, while host Ryan Seacrest’s contract remains unconfirmed.

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