• American Idol Season 24 premieres Monday, Jan. 26, 2026.
  • Yes — the premiere airs at 8 p.m. ET and 7 p.m. Arizona time.
  • Judges this season: Lionel Richie, Luke Bryan and Carrie Underwood; Ryan Seacrest returns as host.
  • Episodes stream the day after broadcast on Hulu.

H2: When does American Idol start?

Season 24 of American Idol begins Monday, Jan. 26, 2026. The live broadcast of the premiere is set for 8 p.m. Eastern Time. If youre in Arizona, tune in at 7 p.m. local time.

H3: Is American Idol on tonight?

Yes. The Season 24 premiere is on tonight at 8 p.m. ET (7 p.m. Arizona time). Check your local ABC listings for broadcast channel and any local time changes.

H2: Whos on the judges panel this season?

Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan return to the judges table joined by Carrie Underwood, who came aboard in 2025 after Katy Perrys departure. Ryan Seacrest is back hosting. The trio will evaluate hopefuls competing for a $250,000 prize and a recording contract.

Carrie Underwood brings a unique perspective: she won Season 4 and went on to build a major recording career, giving her experience both as a contestant and as a music industry pro.

H2: How to watch American Idol

H3: Live broadcast

You can watch the premiere live on your local ABC station. In Arizona, the episode airs on ABC15. Confirm local listings if youre outside the Eastern or Arizona time zones.

H3: Streaming options

Episodes are available to stream the day after broadcast on Hulu. Hulus ad-supported plan was listed at $11.99/month (or $119.99/year) and Hulu Premium at $18.99/month; student discounts may apply. Prices can change, so check Hulu for current subscription details.

H2: Quick context

Last seasons winner, Jamal Roberts, a physical education teacher from Meridian, Mississippi, won Season 23. Season 24 continues American Idols long run as a platform for new talent and a springboard for music careers.

H2: What to expect tonight

The premiere typically features auditions and early rounds that spotlight standout voices and emotional backstories. Expect judges reactions, host commentary from Ryan Seacrest and the shows familiar mix of spectacle and discovery.

H2: Need to share or watch later?

If you miss the live airing, stream the episode on Hulu the following day. You can also follow American Idol news and highlights on ABCs official channels and social media for clips and updates.

Short, clear, and ready for mobile: tune in at 8 p.m. ET (7 p.m. Arizona) to see who makes the first big impression of Season 24.

Image Referance: https://www.azcentral.com/story/entertainment/music/2026/01/26/when-does-american-idol-start/88326600007/