American Idol Champion Teases Exciting Comeback: What Fans Can Expect (Spoilers Inside)

WARNING! THIS ARTICLE CONTAINS MAJOR SPOILERS ABOUT AMERICAN IDOL SEASON 24! American Idol alum Taylor Hicks, who took home the title during the show’s fifth season, has teased a possible comeback in a recent Instagram post. Back in 2006, with the strong backing of his devoted Soul Patrol fans, Taylor emerged victorious over runner-up Katharine McPhee. Throughout that season, his powerful vocals, skillful harmonica play, and captivating stage presence made him a standout contestant. Adding to his unique appeal was his signature gray hair, which distinguished him among his fellow finalists.

During his journey on American Idol, Taylor became known for his soulful and high-energy performances. Some of the memorable songs he delivered include Elton John’s “Levon,” The Commodores’ “Easy,” and The Doobie Brothers’ “Takin’ It to the Streets.” He also performed Stevie Wonder’s “Living for the City,” The Crickets’ “Not Fade Away,” Ray LaMontagne’s “Trouble,” and John Denver’s “Take Me Home, Country Roads.” His repertoire extended to Queen’s “Crazy Little Thing Called Love,” Sam Cooke’s “You Send Me,” James Ingram’s “Just Once,” Wild Cherry’s “Play That Funky Music,” and The Beatles’ “Something.” Additionally, he wowed audiences with Elvis Presley’s “Jailhouse Rock” and “In the Ghetto,” Bruce Springsteen’s “Dancing in the Dark,” Joe Cocker’s “You Are So Beautiful,” Otis Redding’s “Try a Little Tenderness,” and his winning single, “Do I Make You Proud.”

In his Instagram post, Taylor shared an image of himself performing in his well-known purple velvet jacket, set to the tune of his rendition of “Takin’ It to the Streets.” The caption intriguingly read, “Stay tuned for some big @americanidol news soon [wink face emoji].” Given that 2026 marks the 20th anniversary of his win, it seems likely that Taylor will be returning to the show in some capacity.

Taylor Hicks Hints At Return To American Idol

In an Instagram post, Taylor shared a photograph of himself performing in his iconic purple velvet jacket, with his version of “Takin’ It to the Streets” as the music. The caption read, “Stay tuned for some big @americanidol news soon [wink face emoji].” Since 2006 marks the 20th anniversary of Taylor’s win, it seems likely that he’ll be making an appearance on the show.

American Idol Showrunner Teases University Night Featuring The Class Of 2006

In an interview with Billboard, American Idol executive producer and showrunner Megan Michaels Wolflick announced that there will be a university theme for one of the episodes, which will honor the 20th anniversary of the legendary season 5 from 2006. American Idol season 5 gave rise to some of the shows brightest stars, including winner Taylor Hicks, runner-up Katharine McPhee, Chris Daughtry, Elliott Yamin, Kellie Pickler, Ace Young, Bucky Covington, Paris Bennett, and the late Mandisa.

This is most likely what Taylor is referring to in his Instagram post. After Disney Night on April 20, there are only three episodes left in the season, including the finale, so Taylor will make his appearance on the show on the university-themed night on either April 27 or May 4, ahead of the May 11 finale. Host Ryan Seacrest usually teases the next theme night on every episode, so it’s highly likely that he’ll announce Taylor’s return during the Disney Night episode.

Taylor was one of the most talented and charismatic contestants ever to perform on the American Idol stage. He exuded pure joy, and his win was much-deserved. It’s going to be thrilling to see him back on the show, and it’ll be exciting to see if his fellow season 5 contestants make appearances as well. American Idol season 24 is about to be injected with some of Taylor’s soulfulness, and it’s going to be a blast.

Sources: Taylor Hicks/Instagram, Billboard

Release Date

2002 – 2016-00-00

Network

ABC

Showrunner

Nigel Lythgoe

Directors

Ken Warwick

Franchise(s)

American Idol