The 24th season of 'American Idol' premieres on January 26, 2026, on ABC, with episodes streaming the next day on Hulu. The new season introduces a fresh 'Ohana Round' filmed at Aulani, A Disney Resort in Hawai'i, where the top 30 contestants perform for industry tastemakers and peers, with only 20 advancing to the next stage. Judges for this season include Carrie Underwood, Lionel Richie, and Luke Bryan. Underwood, a former winner, joins the panel alongside industry veterans, continuing her successful post-Idol career. The season opener featured emotional auditions from hopefuls across the country, including a teenage singer who moved Carrie Underwood to tears, and contestants like Lucas Leon, Keyla Richardson, and Jesse Findling, who showcased diverse talents and inspiring stories. Other notable auditions included Bryant Thomas, who proposed to his girlfriend after his performance, and Khloe Grace, who performed a heartfelt song inspired by a young girl who died by suicide. Several contestants received unanimous yeses, advancing to Hollywood Week, while others were encouraged to return with more experience. The show continues to blend emotional storytelling with high-level performances, maintaining its status as a leading music competition series.