TV series
Heading back to where it all began.
The iconic series that revolutionized the television landscape by pioneering the music competition genre is back!
Streaming, rental and purchase options
Checked Jul 22, 2026
American Idol is available to stream on Disney+ and Hulu in United States. Use the direct links below to open the provider.
The iconic series that revolutionized the television landscape by pioneering the music competition genre is back!
Choose an episode, then use the watch options above for the show.
Episode 1
Preview the new season as former "American Idol" winner Carrie Underwood joins Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan at the judges' table, bringing her music expertise to the next generation of talent vying for a shot at stardom. Ryan Seacrest hosts.
Where to watch American IdolEpisode 2
Luke, Lionel, Carrie and Ryan head to New York, Los Angeles and Nashville to jump-start auditions, where raw talent and unforgettable performances set the stage for the competition ahead.
Where to watch American IdolEpisode 3
Luke, Lionel, Carrie and Ryan continue auditions in New York, Los Angeles and Nashville, where impressive competitors showcase their talents in fierce competition.
Guest stars Sophie Powers
Episode 4
Auditions continue as Luke, Lionel, Carrie and Ryan are wowed by exceptional talent and unforgettable performances.
Guest stars Jamal Roberts
Episode 5
As the final auditions before Hollywood Week unfold, Idol hopefuls turn up the heat with electrifying performances that leave the judges stunned and eager for what's to come.
Guest stars Kyana Fanene, Canaan James Hill
Episode 6
In the high stakes of Hollywood Week, singers battle through intense challenges and group performances. Luke, Lionel and Carrie face tough decisions that shape the competitors' futures.
Guest stars Jamal Roberts, Canaan James Hill
Episode 7
"American Idol" competitors bring their A-game in the "Showstopper" episode, delivering powerful performances that could make or break their journey to fame. Jelly Roll joins as the first artist in residence to guide them along the way.
Guest stars Kyana Fanene, Jamal Roberts, Canaan James Hill
Episode 8
The competition heats up as competitors face off in intense head-to-head battles, and this season's new artist in residence, Jelly Roll, makes his highly anticipated debut.
Guest stars Kyana Fanene, Jamal Roberts, Canaan James Hill
Episode 9
From Aulani, a Disney Resort and Spa in Ko Olina Hawai'i, the Top 12 of 24 take the stage with guidance from GRAMMY® Award-winning mentor Ashanti as Jelly Roll steps in as "American Idol"'s artist in residence, and nationwide voting begins.
Guest stars Jamal Roberts
Episode 10
The second night at Aulani, a Disney Resort and Spa in Ko Olina Hawai'i, brings powerhouse performances. GRAMMY® winner Josh Groban mentors the remaining Top 12 of 24, and Jelly Roll continues his role as artist in residence as voting intensifies.
Guest stars Kyana Fanene, Canaan James Hill
Episode 11
"American Idol" celebrates Easter! Enjoy songs of faith from the finalists, GRAMMY(R) winner CeCe Winans, and artist in residence Jelly Roll with Brandon Lake. Plus, judges Lionel Richie, Carrie Underwood and Luke Bryan perform as voting continues.
Guest stars Jamal Roberts, Canaan James Hill
Episode 12
The Top 14 are revealed as the finalists return to the stage with powerful, emotional live performances from Hollywood.
Guest stars Jamal Roberts, Canaan James Hill
Episode 13
With guidance from an award-winning guest mentor, the Top 14 take on iconic songs from Rock & Roll Hall of Fame legends as America votes live for the Top 12.
Guest stars Jamal Roberts, Canaan James Hill
Episode 14
The Top 12 perform unforgettable songs inspired by iconic "American Idol" moments, honoring the show's legendary history. Season three winner Fantasia returns to the "Idol" stage, and artist in residence Jelly Roll joins our live studio audience.
Guest stars Jamal Roberts, Fantasia Barrino, Jelly Roll, Canaan James Hill
Episode 15
Powerhouse performances celebrate the Iconic Women of Music, featuring Miranda Lambert, as the Top 10 return hoping to earn a spot in the Top 8. America votes live to decide who moves one step closer to becoming the next American Idol.
Guest stars Jamal Roberts, Canaan James Hill
Episode 16
The Top 8 perform songs secretly selected by Luke Bryan, Lionel Richie or Carrie Underwood in the "Judge's Song Contest." With Jelly Roll as artist in residence, America votes for the Top 6, and the judges save one to complete the Top 7.
Guest stars Jamal Roberts, Jelly Roll
Episode 17
"Disney Night" celebrates Mother's Day with special guest Lin-Manuel Miranda. The Top 7 travel to Disneyland Resort and light up the stage with Disney classics as America votes live for the five moving forward in the competition.
Guest stars Jamal Roberts, Lin-Manuel Miranda
Episode 18
"Disney Night" continues with heroes, villains and a special appearance by Lin-Manuel Miranda. The Top 5 travel to Disneyland Resort and perform twice as America votes live for the three heading to the finale.
Guest stars Jamal Roberts, Lin-Manuel Miranda
Episode 19
The top three give their final performances in a star-studded night with music legends and top stars; this year's winner is revealed.
Guest stars Jamal Roberts, Canaan James Hill
Episode information updated Jul 23, 2026
Ryan SeacrestSelf - Host
Lionel RichieSelf - Judge
Katy PerrySelf - Judge
Luke BryanSelf - Judge
Bobby BonesSelf - Mentor
Carrie UnderwoodSelf - Judge
ABCUnited States
Disney+
FremantleMedia North AmericaUnited States
