Overview
- ABC announced the Season 25 renewal on July 29, 2026, and said episodes will air on ABC in 2027 with next-day streaming on Disney+ and Hulu and live-streaming on Disney+ for live shows.
- The show will reopen casting with 'Idol Across America,' a virtual audition tour starting Aug. 25 that runs through late September and includes state dates, regional open calls and several nationwide sessions.
- VIP Day on Aug. 25 is limited to the first 250 registered singers and video auditions will be accepted for those who cannot attend a scheduled date.
- Auditions are open worldwide to eligible contestants who must be at least 15 years old by Feb. 15, 2027, which broadens access by letting hopefuls audition from any listed date regardless of home state.
- Industry reports say judges Luke Bryan, Lionel Richie and Carrie Underwood are expected to return though deals remain under negotiation and Ryan Seacrest’s status is not yet finalized; the show is produced by Fremantle and 19 Entertainment with Megan Michaels Wolflick as showrunner.