In a much-anticipated announcement, ABC has confirmed the renewal of the beloved reality singing competition, American Idol, for the 2025-2026 season. This renewal marks the show's ninth season on ABC and its 24th overall, solidifying its status as a staple in American television.
The announcement came on Friday, May 9, 2025, just days before the highly awaited Season 23 finale, which is set to air on May 18, 2025. This season has seen a notable change in the judging panel, with former Idol champion Carrie Underwood stepping in to replace Katy Perry, joining long-time judges Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie. Ryan Seacrest continues to host the show, a role he has held since its inception.
Fans of the show can breathe a sigh of relief, as the renewal puts to rest any concerns about the future of American Idol. With its strong ratings and loyal fanbase, the show has consistently performed well, even in an era where traditional television ratings have declined. The current season has seen impressive viewership numbers, with recent episodes drawing in over 5 million viewers.
In addition to American Idol, ABC has also renewed several other popular unscripted shows for the upcoming season. These include America’s Funniest Home Videos, which will return for its 36th season, Celebrity Jeopardy! for its fourth season, Celebrity Wheel of Fortune for its sixth season, and Shark Tank, which is gearing up for its 17th season.
Shark Tank, currently in its 16th season, has also been a fan favorite, with the season finale scheduled for May 16, 2025. The show features entrepreneurs pitching their business ideas to a panel of investors, and it has become a hallmark of ABC's reality programming. The continued success of these shows underscores ABC's commitment to providing engaging content for its viewers.
As for American Idol, the upcoming season is set to feature auditions that are already open for hopeful singers. Ryan Seacrest announced during the recent broadcasts that singers born between June 2, 1996, and February 15, 2011, can submit their audition clips online. This opportunity is expected to attract a diverse range of talent as the show seeks to discover the next big star.
The current season's ratings have remained steady, with standout episodes like the 'Ladies Night' on May 4 and the 'Judges Song Contest' on May 5 garnering some of the best numbers this season. The Sunday episode achieved a 0.6 rating in the key 18-49 demographic, while the following Monday episode pulled in 0.4, showcasing the show's competitive edge against other reality programs like The Voice.
Interestingly, American Idol has managed to outperform The Voice in recent weeks, with the latter only achieving a 0.2 rating in the same demographic during its playoff episode. This performance is a testament to the show's enduring popularity and the loyalty of its audience.
Looking ahead, the show's format will continue to evolve, with speculation on whether American Idol will eventually simulcast its live shows on Disney+, following the trend set by other reality shows like Dancing with the Stars, which airs live and is available for streaming.
As the countdown to the Season 23 finale continues, excitement is building for what the next season will bring. The finale promises to be a grand event, with the Top 3 contestants competing for the coveted title. The upcoming episodes on May 11 and May 12 will feature Disney-themed performances, adding a magical touch to the competition.
In the midst of the excitement, one contestant, Jamal Roberts, has captured the hearts of viewers and judges alike. Currently in the Top 7, Jamal has impressed with his versatility, performing a range of genres that showcase his talent. He expressed gratitude for the support he has received from his hometown of Meridian, Mississippi, stating, "You don’t have to meet somebody to show support and show love, and that’s what I love about people." His journey continues as he aims for a spot in the Top 5 during the upcoming Disney night episode.
As ABC prepares to unveil its full fall schedule on May 13, 2025, fans are left eagerly anticipating more news about their favorite shows. With American Idol leading the charge, ABC is clearly committed to delivering a diverse lineup of engaging content that resonates with viewers. Here's to hoping for even more renewals and exciting developments in the world of reality television!
