ABC has renewed American Idol for the 2026-27 season, marking the show's 10th year on the network and 25th overall, following its first 15 seasons on Fox. The renewal, announced without confirmation of returning host or judges, comes after a strong ratings rebound, underscoring the singing competition's enduring appeal for the network heading into a milestone run.

As is customary, ABC's announcement did not confirm whether host Ryan Seacrest and judges Luke Bryan, Lionel Richie and Carrie Underwood will return, though sources say they are expected back, with an official update likely in the coming weeks. Idol's on-air audience grew by around 11% last season, averaging 7.08 million cross-platform viewers over seven days, with country singer Hannah Harper crowned the winner. Auditions for the new season begin on 25 August, running through late September with virtual casting calls across all 50 US states and Washington DC, plus regional and nationwide open calls. The show is produced by Fremantle and 19 Entertainment, part of Sony Pictures Television.