CARRIE UNDERWOOD IS COMING BACK TO AMERICAN IDOL — AND 2026 JUST GOT BIG. The show’s original powerhouse is returning to the stage that made her a legend, and fans are already losing it. This isn’t just a comeback — it’s a full-circle moment, and the next generation of stars is about to meet their mentor.

👉 Full announcement in the first comment 👇

Carrie Underwood Officially Returning to American Idol Judging Panel in 2026

The original queen of the show is coming back to where it all began, and the excitement is already breaking the internet.

Carrie Underwood, the Season 4 winner who launched one of country music’s most iconic careers, is set to return as a judge on American Idol for its 24th overall season (ninth on ABC) premiering in 2026. Joining veterans Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie, Underwood will once again sit at the panel that helped shape her destiny two decades ago.

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ABC confirmed the lineup in August 2025, with the trio declaring “class is back in session” in a playful “Idol University” promo. Ryan Seacrest is expected to return as host, continuing his streak since the show’s 2002 debut. Auditions for the new season kicked off with “Idol Across America” virtual rounds, drawing thousands of hopefuls eager for feedback from the panel.

Underwood made her judging debut in Season 23 (2025), replacing Katy Perry and bringing unique insight as the show’s most successful alum—eight Grammys, over 85 million records sold, and a career spanning powerhouse ballads to gospel albums. Her first season earned praise for thoughtful critiques, genre knowledge, and carving her own role alongside Bryan and Richie’s established dynamic.

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Fans are buzzing: many call it a full-circle triumph, with Underwood guiding the next generation like mentors once did for her. Social media exploded with nostalgia—clips of her 2005 win resurfacing alongside excitement for her sophomore judging year. “The queen returning to her throne,” one fan posted, while others hailed the country-leaning panel (Bryan and Underwood’s roots shining) as perfect for discovering versatile talent.

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today.com

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Is this the biggest comeback in reality TV history? Underwood’s journey—from Checotah, Oklahoma farm girl to Idol victor in 2005, then global superstar—makes her return poetic. No other winner has judged full-time, adding historic weight. The show, rebooted on ABC in 2018, continues thriving as a top unscripted series, launching stars like Kelly Clarkson and Fantasia.

Season 24 premieres January 26, 2026—earlier than recent years, on Mondays at 8/7c. With Underwood back, expect more emotional auditions, insightful mentorship, and perhaps gospel-tinged surprises. Fans desperate to see her guide superstars-in-waiting won’t have long to wait—this comeback feels destined.