Host Ryan Seacrest Returns to “American Idol” for Season 9 on ABC and Hulu

Emmy® Award-winning and longtime host Ryan Seacrest will join music superstars Luke Bryan, Lionel Richie, and Carrie Underwood when “American Idol” returns for its ninth season on ABC and Hulu, and 24th overall, in 2026.

Season 9 auditions are currently underway with the return of “Idol Across America,” the live virtual nationwide search for the next superstar, taking place across all 50 states plus Washington, D.C. Those auditioning will be given the opportunity to showcase their talents face-to-face with an “American Idol” producer, from anywhere in America, across any official audition date for a chance to proceed to the judge auditions. Contenders will also be allowed to audition during open call dates, and auditions will be open worldwide to all those eligible.

“Idol Across America” auditions will be held as follows (subject to change):

Alaska, California, Hawaii, Nevada, Washington (September 9)

Florida, Michigan, Virginia, West Virginia (September 11)

East Coast open call (September 12)

The South open call (September 15)

Illinois, Iowa, Minnesota, Missouri, Wisconsin (September 16)

West and Midwest open call (September 18)

Delaware, Maryland, Massachusetts, Ohio, Rhode Island, Vermont, Washington, D.C. (September 19)

Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah, Wyoming (September 22)

Nationwide open call (September 24)

For information on how to sign up for “Idol Across America” and to register to virtually audition in front of an “American Idol” producer, please visit americanidol.com/auditions. Contenders may audition on any “Idol Across America” date, regardless of location. For full eligibility requirements, details on specific dates, submission forms, and terms and conditions, please visit the website.

“American Idol” is produced by Fremantle and 19 Entertainment, a part of Sony Pictures Television. Executive producers include Megan Wolflick, also serving as showrunner with Eli Holzman and Aaron Saidman serving as executive producers for 19 Entertainment. Fremantle distributes the series worldwide.

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