NEED TO KNOW
The American Idol trio is coming back for more!
Luke Bryan, Lionel Richie and Carrie Underwood are set to return as the judging panel for the upcoming ninth season of American Idol on ABC next year, and the singing competition’s 24th season overall, the network announced on Monday, Aug. 25.
In a back-to-school themed social media video, the singers announced their involvement, with Bryan, 46, declaring, “Class is back in session.”
“This year, we’re majoring in music as we help launch your dreams,” added Underwood, 42.
Richie, 76, then labeled himself the “professor of positivity,” while Bryan deemed himself the “professor of fun.”
“Sign up for my class — you’ll be blown away,” quipped Underwood, in a nod to her hit 2012 song and album “Blown Away.”
The video also included “Idol Across America” audition information, including the dates of the first nationwide open call (Sept. 3), the East Coast open call (Sept. 12), the South open call (Sept. 15), the West Coast open call (Sept. 18) and the second nationwide open call (Sept. 24).
“Idol Across America” is a live, virtual nationwide search for the next star; after auditions, potential contestants showcase their talents with an Idol producer for a shot at singing before the judging panel.
Eric McCandless/Disney via Getty
American Idol first debuted on Fox in June 2002 and ran for 15 seasons before wrapping in April 2016. Two years later, the series was revived by ABC, and Bryan and Richie have been on board for every season since, as has host Ryan Seacrest.
Underwood joined the pair last season in place of Katy Perry, marking her return to the series that launched her career after she won season four in 2005. Perry departed in order to focus on new music, as well as her Lifetimes Tour.
Last season’s winner Jamal Roberts’ first single “Heal” debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Gospel chart in May.
Other winners from the revived series include Abi Carter, Iam Tongi, Noah Thompson, Chayce Beckham, Just Sam, Laine Hardy and Maddie Poppe.
