Luca, Lionel Richie and Karrie Underwood are back as American Idol judges. Auditions begin!
American Idol’s Judges Return!
American Idol teens are back to judge – Luke Bryan, Lionel Richie and Carrie Underwood.
ABC has announced that next year’s ninth season on ABC (overall 24th season) will feature these superstar judges.
This pair has entertained audiences in previous seasons and is sure to be a blast this time too.
Back-to-School Vibe Announcement
The Judges confirmed their return in a fun “back-to-school” themed video.
Luke Bryan proudly said, “Class is back in session,” while Carrie Underwood added, “This year, we’re majoring in music as we help launch your dreams.”
Lionel Richie called himself the “professor of positivity,” and Bryan the “professor of fun.”
Underwood made a cheeky reference to a line from his hit album “Blown Away”: “Sign up for my class — you’ll be blown away.”
Idol Across America: Audition Dates
Now let’s talk about the auditions. “Idol Across America” is a live, virtual nationwide search in which contestants perform directly in front of the producers, and then get a shot to sing in front of the singing panel. Dates are as follows:
- September 3: First nationwide open call
- September 12: East Coast auditions
- September 15: South auditions
- September 18: West Coast auditions
- September 24: Second nationwide open call
On the virtual stage, every aspiring star gets one shot to shine – just have to showcase their talent.
Show Ki Kahani: From Fox to ABC
American Idol began its journey on Fox in June 2002 and concluded in April 2016 after 15 seasons.
ABC revived it in 2018 and since then Luke and Richie have been judges every season.
Ryan Seacrest is still in the host’s seat, whose hosting style doubles the energy of the show.
Underwood, who was herself the winner of season 4 (2005), replaced Katy Perry as judge last season.
Perry shifted her focus to new music and touring.
Short History of Winners
Some standout winners after the revival are:
- Just Sam
- Laine Hardy
- Chayce Beckham
- Maddie Poppe
- Abi Carter
- Iam Tongi
- Noah Thompson
- Last season’s Jamal Roberts, whose debut single “Heal” went to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Gospel chart
Each winner brought their own unique musical style and inspired fans.
The next season promises the perfect combo of excitement, new voices and old-school charisma.
If you also want to make your singing dream a reality, get ready for the September auditions. Who knows, you are the next superstar!