Overview

• ABC confirmed Seacrest’s new deal, resolving speculation after an August judges announcement omitted him.
• Carrie Underwood, Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie will reprise their roles on the judges’ panel for a second season as a trio.
• Idol Across America virtual auditions are underway across all 50 states and Washington, D.C., culminating in a nationwide open call on Sept. 24.
• ABC says the new season will debut in January on ABC and Hulu, marking the show’s ninth cycle on the network and 24th overall.
• The network highlights Idol’s strong standing as a top unscripted performer, with last season’s finale leading its night and week.