“American Idol” Finally Reveals If Ryan Seacrest Is Returning For Season 24
on Sep 10, 2025
American Idol Host Ryan Seacrest Wasn’t Included In The Video Naming The Judges For Season 24
After American Idol‘s recent announcement naming the judges for Season 24, many fans were left asking the same question: “Where’s Ryan Seacrest?“
On August 25th, Idol shared a back-to-school-themed video revealing the judges for its 2026 season: Luke Bryan, Lionel Richie, and Carrie Underwood. The trio first worked together during Season 23.
Bryan and Richie have served as judges since Idol moved to ABC in 2018. Underwood, who won Season 4 of Idol in 2005, replaced longtime judge Katy Perry for the 2025 season.
Now, she is serving as a judge for a second time alongside Bryan and Richie!
RELATED: WHAT DOES THE WINNER OF “AMERICAN IDOL” RECEIVE AS A PRIZE?
But those who watched the judge announcement noticed that host Ryan Seacrest was missing from the clip. His absence raised questions about his future on the show after 23 seasons as the host. In the past, his return has been announced at the same time as the judges’.
Reports indicated Seacrest was expected to return for Season 24, but fans wondered if he could make it work with his busy schedule. On top of hosting Idol, Seacrest also hosts Wheel of Fortune and a radio show.
Additionally, Seacrest’s father, Gary Seacrest, is battling cancer. Seacrest has been splitting his time between Los Angeles and Atlanta to be with his dad and family.
Is Ryan Seacrest Returning To American Idol?
Two weeks after Idol named the judges for Season 24, the show finally revealed if Seacrest is returning to his role as the show’s host.
Deadline reports that ABC (Idol‘s home network) confirmed on September 9th that Seacrest has signed on to host Season 24!
“The band will be back together on American Idol,” Deadline wrote. “ABC has confirmed Emmy winner Ryan Seacrest will return as host for Season 9, the music competition series’ 24th overall, joining previously announced returning judges Luke Bryan, Lionel Richie and Carrie Underwood. Season 9 will premiere in January on ABC and Hulu.”
The show also confirmed Seacrest’s involvement in a post on their social media pages. They said:
“Seacrest…IN! 🤩 Join us in welcoming @ryanseacrest back to host a new season of @americanidol!”
Although Season 24 won’t premiere until early next year, auditions are already underway! We’ll keep you up-to-date with any news we learn about the new season.
In the meantime, head below to watch judges Luke Bryan, Lionel Richie, and Carrie Underwood sing “Stuck On You” during the Season 23 finale.
