LIONEL RICHIE, CARRIE UNDERWOOD, LUKE BRYAN
Disney
American Idol returns tonight with a two-hour episode, marking its first season in seven years without Katy Perry on the judging panel. Here’s everything you need to know about the Season 23 premiere, including start time, how to watch, and more.
The last season of American Idol wrapped up in May 2024, with Abi Carter winning over finalists Will Moseley and Jack Blocker. Tonight, another season begins with a new roster of contestants and a new judge who will bring the show back to its roots.
Longtime judges Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan will be joined by Grammy-winning Carrie Underwood this season. The 41-year-old country star returns to Idol 20 years after she first auditioned for the show before ultimately winning the title in 2005. Since then, she’s released nine studio albums and earned eight Grammy Awards.
Underwood gave a sneak peak into her judging style during an episode of SiriusXM’s Music Row Happy Hour in August 2024. “I think I can be honest and constructive, but still kind,” she said. “And I think that’s the whole point, because people are coming in and it’s dreams. You’re part of somebody’s story from that moment on.”
ForbesWho Is Replacing Katy Perry On ‘American Idol?’ Carrie Underwood Reclaims Her RootsBy Monica MercuriUnderwood is replacing Katy Perry, who announced she was leaving the singing competition after Season 22 to focus on her music. “I love the show so much, but I want to go and see the world and maybe bring new music,” Perry said on Jimmy Kimmel Live!. She released her seventh album, 143, in September 2024.
This season, American Idol is also introducing a new “artist in residence” role. Beginning in Hollywood Week, musicians will mentor contestants as they progress through the competition. The first-ever artist in residence is Grammy-nominated singer Jelly Roll, who will provide firsthand advice on how to “navigate the journey,” Variety first reported in February.
One thing that hasn’t changed? Ryan Seacrest. After hosting two decades of American Idol, he’s back to lead the show once again in Season 23. Here’s when and how to watch the new season.
What Time Is American Idol On Tonight?
LIONEL RICHIE, CARRIE UNDERWOOD, LUKE BRYAN
Disney
American Idol Season 23 premieres at 8 p.m. ET/PT on Sunday, March 9, on ABC and streams the next day on Hulu.
How To Watch American Idol Season 23
Ryan Seacrest, Lionel Richie, Carrie Underwood, and Luke Bryan. (Disney/Gizelle Hernandez)
Disney/Gizelle Hernandez
American Idol airs live on Sundays at 8 p.m. ET on ABC. If you don’t have cable, you can watch American Idol on a live TV streaming service that carries ABC, including DirecTV Stream, YouTube TV, Hulu+ Live TV, and Fubo, all of which currently offer free trials.
If you don’t mind waiting, American Idol episodes will be available to stream on Hulu the next day (on Mondays). The streaming service currently offers a 30-day free trial, which means that new and eligible returning subscribers can watch a portion of the season for free. After the trial period ends, Hulu plans start at $9.99 per month or $99 a year.
What Is The American Idol Season 23 Release Schedule?
Amanda Barise on American Idol.
Disney/Eric McCandless
American Idol returns with a two-hour premiere on Sunday, March 9. The first three episodes will feature auditions before the lucky contestants advance to Hollywood Week. While ABC hasn’t confirmed the Season 23 release schedule, last season consisted of 18 episodes, with the finale airing in mid-May. Stay tuned to learn more details.
Watch the official teaser for American Idol Season 23, below.
