American Idol has released a brand-new teaser for Season 24, giving fans their first glimpse of the hopeful contestants who will take the stage when the show returns to ABC later this month.
The teaser highlights several aspiring singers as they share what auditioning for the iconic competition means to them. “When I was little, watching American Idol, I knew I’d find a way onto that stage,” one contestant says, while another describes her audition as “the first page of my story.”
Throughout the clip, more contestants offer emotional and motivational reflections on their journeys. Viewers also see reactions from the judging panel—Carrie Underwood, Lionel Richie, and Luke Bryan—responding to performances with praise like “Wow!” and “Beautiful!”
The teaser’s message, “You make them idols,” is underscored by celebratory moments of contestants receiving their Golden Tickets to Hollywood, marking their advancement beyond the audition round.
Season 24 will also bring a scheduling change. American Idol will now air on Monday nights, premiering January 26 on ABC, after spending several seasons in a Sunday time slot.
Carrie Underwood returns for her second season as a judge, joined by longtime panelists Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan, who have been part of the show since its move from FOX to ABC in 2018.
After Jamal Roberts claimed the Season 23 title last year, anticipation is high to see who will rise to the top this season. Season 24 is almost here—and the journey is just beginning.