The finale of the hit ABC series delivered all the emotion and suspense longtime viewers have come to expect. With powerhouse finalists Jamal Roberts, John Foster, and Breanna Nix all delivering unforgettable performances, the decision came down to the wire. Judges Carrie Underwood, Luke Bryan, and Lionel Richie were visibly moved, but it was Jamal who ultimately won over America and walked away as the newest American Idol champion.
As Season 23 came to an end, ABC wasted no time reassuring fans that the journey isn’t over. Just days before the finale, American Idol confirmed that it will return in 2026 for its 24th overall season (Season 9 on ABC). The official Instagram account announced the renewal with the caption: “Dim the lights… here we go. #AmericanIdol is coming back for another season! 🎶” Fans were thrilled, flooding the comments with messages like “That is awesome news!” and “One of my favorite shows ever 😍.”
While it will be some time before the next group of contestants is revealed, auditions for Season 24 are already underway. The show shared a video featuring winner Jamal Roberts, who encouraged aspiring singers to take their shot. “You could be the next American Idol,” he said. “So, go sign up on americanidol.com/auditions.” His inspiring story — from PE teacher to national star — is already motivating others to follow their dreams.
As for the judging panel, all signs point to Carrie Underwood, Luke Bryan, and Lionel Richie returning for Season 24. Host Ryan Seacrest is also expected to stay on board. Carrie, who joined the panel after Katy Perry’s departure in early 2024, has been a fan favorite. A former Idol winner herself (Season 4, 2005), she brought fresh insight and heartfelt mentorship to the role, even revisiting her Idol journey in her YouTube series Idol to Icon.
With a new chapter beginning, fans are already buzzing about what’s next for the franchise. And with Jamal Roberts setting the bar high, Season 24 has a lot to live up to — but it also promises the kind of once-in-a-lifetime talent and stories that keep America tuning in year after year.
