Ryan Seacrest returns as host for American Idol season 9

ABC has officially confirmed that Ryan Seacrest will return as the host for American Idol Season 9, set to premiere in January 2026. The announcement puts an end to months of speculation, as Seacrest’s involvement had been unclear following the network’s judge reveal in August. However, sources had previously indicated that Seacrest was expected to return, despite delays in finalizing his deal.

Seacrest will once again join judges Luke Bryan, Lionel Richie, and Carrie Underwood, who were previously confirmed to return for the 24th overall season of the music competition series. American Idol continues to be a top-rated unscripted show on ABC, with last season’s finale ranking as the most-watched program of the night and the week. Additionally, the finale garnered the highest Total Viewer audience in two years, as reported by the network.

Season 9 will feature the return of Idol Across America, the live, virtual nationwide search for the next music superstar. Auditions for the upcoming season are currently underway, with hopefuls in all 50 states and Washington, D.C. invited to participate. The nationwide auditions allow contestants to showcase their talents to American Idol producers for the chance to advance to the judge auditions. Additionally, open call auditions will be held across various locations.

Open call dates include several regional auditions, including for the East Coast, South, Midwest, and West. The full schedule is available on the American Idol website for those looking to audition.

American Idol is produced by Fremantle and 19 Entertainment, a part of Sony Pictures Television, with Megan Wolflick serving as showrunner. The series continues to be distributed worldwide by Fremantle.