A lot is coming full-circle for the newest “American Idol” judge joining the season 23 panel after winning the singing competition 20 years ago.
The latest season of “American Idol” premieres Sunday on ABC with three judges – returning celebs Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan and former “American Idol” champion Carrie Underwood.
“20 years ago I auditioned for the judges of @americanidol, and today I am now one of those judges searching for someone who wants to BE AN IDOL!” Underwood wrote in an August social media post.
The show will conduct a nationwide search to find the most talented amateur singers in New York, Los Angeles and Nashville. After judges and viewer votes narrow the field of contestants, one winner will emerge, securing a record deal and joining the ranks of fellow “Idol” winners, including Underwood, Kelly Clarkson, Jordin Sparks, Scotty McCreery and others.
Here’s everything to know about the new season of the beloved singing competition.
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Has ‘American Idol’ already started?
“American Idol” aired a 30-minute sneak peak of the new season after the Oscar Awards on March 2, which is now available to stream on Hulu.
The first half-hour sneak peek dives into Underwood’s background on the show and sees judges Luke Bryan, Lionel Richie and Underwood watch the first few auditions of the season in Nashville.
When is the season 23 premiere of ‘American Idol’?
Season 23 of “American Idol” premieres Sunday, March 9, at 8 p.m. ET on ABC.
‘American Idol’ episode schedule
“American Idol” airs on Sunday nights at 8 p.m. ET.
Where to watch ‘American Idol’
The show airs live on ABC and is available to stream the next day on Hulu. It can also be streamed live on any platform with live TV capability.
Who are the season 23 ‘American Idol’ judges?
Long-time judges Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan are joined by Carrie Underwood this season.
The “Before He Cheats” singer is taking over for Katy Perry, who revealed she was leaving the show to focus on music. Underwood, an “American Idol” alum, returns to the show about 20 years after she won the competitive singing competition in season 4.
In that time, Underwood has created 28 No. 1 singles and garnered eight Grammy Award wins.
Who is the guest mentor on this season of ‘American Idol’?
Grammy-nominated singer Jelly Roll will serve as a first-ever artist in residence. He will work closely with contestants, giving them firsthand advice on how to “navigate the journey,” as Variety first reported.
Who won the last season of ‘American Idol’?
Abi Carter, a 22-year-old musician from Indio, California, won season 22 of “American Idol,” distinguishing herself as a frontrunner since her audition, when Luke Bryan declared she “may be the winner.”