Name: American Idol
Genre: Reality
Released: 2018-03-11
Rating: 6.7
Cast: Ryan Seacrest, Lionel Richie, Luke Bryan, Carrie Underwood

Carrie Underwood judging the show she won? Full circle chaos.

Currently Airing

Watch(US)

karaoke bar meets therapy sessionsecondhand embarrassment Olympicsdreams built and shattered in 90 seconds

Latest Episode

128 min

Season 9 • Episode 16

Latest

916 (Grand Finale)

May 11, 2026

The Top 3 finalists give their all for the last chance to earn America's vote; Alicia Keys performs and serves as guest mentor; special performances from other music legends and today's top stars.

Overview

Reality

The iconic series that revolutionized the television landscape by pioneering the music competition genre is back!

reboot competition aspiring singer singer judge singing competition talent music competition audition talent competition+4 more

the commodification of artistic dreamsAmerican mythology of meritocracygenerational nostalgia cycles

Standout Aspects

Production

ABC's softer lighting makes everyone look like angels.

Acting

Luke Bryan's 'I felt that in my soul' performances deserve Emmy consideration.

Best for:Background·Family·Rewatch

Heads up:Emotional

First AiredMar 11, 2018

StatusOngoing

Vibe

Pacesteady

Intensitymedium

Tonemixed

Feelmedium

Seasons9·Episodes162

Top Cast

Ryan Seacrest

Self - Host

Lionel Richie

Self - Judge

Luke Bryan

Self - Judge

Carrie Underwood

Self - Judge

Ask about American Idol

Opens AI chat

Deep Dive

Trivia, insights & behind the scenes

Cultural

ABC's revival strategically launched in 2018 to compete against NBC's 'The Voice,' sparking a full-blown network singing show war that exhausted everyone.

Insight

Carrie Underwood became the first former contestant to judge, completing a 15-year arc from unknown Oklahoma farm girl to franchise royalty—corporate synergy at its most effective.

Gallery(20 images)