The quest to find the next music superstar is set to kick off when American Idol returns for season 23. The show will welcome a new addition to the judging panel and has a lot more surprises in store.

Who Are the Judges for ‘American Idol’ Season 23?

Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan will be returning as judges for season 23 of American Idol. Since Katy Perry marked her final season as a judge in May 2024, the show had to bring in a big name to replace her.

Season 4 American Idol winner Carrie Underwood will be joining Luke and Lionel at the judging panel in season 23.

“This upcoming season marks 20 years since Carrie won America’s hearts on Idol and launched her successful multi-GRAMMY Award-winning career. As a former Idol and dynamic musical force, she brings a remarkably unique perspective to one of the most popular shows on television,” Craig Erwich, President, Disney Television Group, said. “This is a full-circle moment both for the show and audiences at home who have been tuning in for over two decades. Welcome home, Carrie.”

“Carrie Underwood is the first American Idol alum ever to join the judging panel. Her global superstar status as the most successful Idol winner to date makes her a perfect fit for the show,” Megan Wolflick, showrunner and executive producer of American Idol, said. “She embodies the true spirit of Idol as she herself is the definition of the Cinderella story. Our future hopefuls will have the chance to receive advice from someone who has walked in their exact footsteps every step of the way. Carrie has always been a strong supporter of Idol, and I’m thrilled for her to be reunited with our Idol Family.”

During an August 2024 interview with SiriusXM host Buzz Brainard, the “Before He Cheats” singer talked about her style of judging the contestants on the show.

“I like to think that I am versatile, and hopefully, when I listen to people come in and audition, I can have any lens I need to put on,” Carrie said.

“I think I can be honest and constructive but still kind,” she continued. “And I think that’s the whole point, ’cause people are coming in and, you know, it’s dreams. And you’re a part of somebody’s story from that moment on. So I think it’s important to be honest, but I think it’s also very important to be kind, so hopefully, I can marry all of those together and be a good judge.”

Auditions for the show’s new season began in August 2024. It was also announced that Jelly Roll will serve as “Artist in Residence,” or a mentor for the contestants.

It was also revealed that Ashanti will also serve as a mentor on the season. “Big vibes on #AmericanIdol! I’m a guest mentor at @disneyaulani this year, and of course @jellyroll615 and I are bringing the heat!!!” she wrote on Instagram in February 2025.

Who Is Hosting ‘American Idol’ Season 23?

Ryan Seacrest is back as host for season 23. He has served as the host of every single season of the talent competition program since it premiered in 2002.

When Will Season 23 of ‘American Idol’ Premiere?

Season 23 of American Idol is set to premiere on March 9, 2025, at 8 p.m. ET on ABC. It will be available to stream the next day with a Hulu subscription.