American Idol Season 24: Iconic Return of Past Champions and a Surprise Guest Judge in Hawaii Week Part 1!

WARNING! THIS ARTICLE CONTAINS MAJOR SPOILERS ABOUT AMERICAN IDOL SEASON 24! The latest season of American Idol has kicked off its 24th edition by bringing back two beloved former contestants as guest performers for the much-anticipated Hawaii Week, Part 1. This special segment is set against the stunning backdrop of Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa in Ko Olina. In a delightful twist, a guest judge will join the regular panel of Lionel Richie, Carrie Underwood, and Luke Bryan, adding an extra layer of excitement to the show.

As the competition progresses, the field has been narrowed to the Top 30 contestants. This talented group will face their next challenge during the ‘Ohana Round, scheduled to air on March 9. Here, a unique panel consisting of industry tastemakers, alongside the contestants’ families and friends, will help decide who advances to the Top 20.

The roster for this season’s Top 30 includes a diverse array of artists: Abayomi, Bella Emry, Braden Rumfelt, Brenna Brigman, Brianna Yancey, Brooks, Bryant Thomas, Chloe Lauren, Chris Tungseth, Genevieve Heyward, Hannah Harper, Jacquie Lee, Jake Thistle, Jesse Findling, Jordan McCullough, Julián Kalel, Keyla Richardson, Kiera Howell, Kutter Bradley, Kyndal Inskeep, Lucas Leon, Madison Moon, Makiyah, Michael Garner, Philmon Lee, Rae, Ruby Rae, Sheldon Riley, and Tianna.

March 16 will mark the debut of Hawaii Week’s first segment, showcasing half of the Top 20 contestants as they face their first public voting round. This pivotal moment will be guided by mentors Brad Paisley and Keke Palmer, who will offer their expertise during the episodes on March 16 and 23. Following these episodes, American Idol will transition to live broadcasts, intensifying the competition as the finalists vie for the coveted title of the next American Idol.

Who Are The American Idol Season 24 Hawaii Week Part 1 Guest Performers?

According to an ABC press release, American Idol season 24 Hawaii Week Part 1 will feature performances from season 21 winner Iam Tongi and season 23 finalist Thunderstorm Artis. Iam won American Idol in 2023, making history as the first person from Hawaii and the first Pacific Islander to win the show. He’s also the first winner born after the show’s 2002 premiere. Thunderstorm placed in the Top 5 of American Idol season 23 in 2025 after finishing in third place in The Voice season 18 in 2020.

Who Is The American Idol Season 24 Hawaii Week Part 1 Guest Judge?

Via: Depositphotos

Keke Palmer will not only be a mentor for the American Idol season 24 Top 20, but she’ll also serve as a guest judge, joining Lionel, Carrie, and Luke on the panel. Keke is an Emmy Award-winning actress, singer, and television host. In 2019, Time magazine included her in its Time 100 list, which spotlights the 100 most influential people in the world.

American Idol season 24 has been a thrilling ride so far, jam-packed with contestants with phenomenal talent. From the ‘Ohana Round to the Top 20 Hawaii Week Round, the show’s trip to the Aloha State is going to be extraordinary. In addition to the Top 20 finalists’ performances, it’ll be so exciting to see Iam and Thunderstorm back on the American Idol stage. It’ll also be interesting to see what advice guest judge Keke has to offer the contestants as they compete for America’s Vote for the first time. American Idol season 24 Hawaii Week Part 1 might be the best yet.

Source: ABC

Release Date

2002 – 2016-00-00

Network

ABC

Showrunner

Nigel Lythgoe

Directors

Ken Warwick

Franchise(s)

American Idol