American Idol‘s 23rd season is on the horizon as ABC unveils a first look at the newest judge and past winner, Carrie Underwood.
She joins long-running host Ryan Seacrest and fellow judges Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan for the latest round of competition as they seek out the next American Idol. Underwood steps up into the role previously held by singing superstar Katy Perry, officially announced in August of this year.
Disney/Eric McCandless
The new image sees Underwood posing in pink next to Richie, Seacrest, and Bryan as they gear up for auditions. As fans know, the hit series combs through the cities of America in search of unparalleled musical talent, offering everyday people a platform for potential success.
If this image is any indication, auditions for the upcoming season are underway, as filming for Season 23 commences. In 2025, American Idol will ring in its eighth season with ABC after previously airing for 15 seasons on Fox where the series originally debuted.
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Additionally, Underwood knows better than anyone how quickly American Idol can change someone’s life as she lived it herself. Underwood was discovered during the show’s fourth season on Fox, beating out runner-up Bo Bice for the top title.
A farm girl from Muskogee, Oklahoma, Underwood performed for the original judge trio Simon Cowell, Paula Abdul, and Randy Jackson back in 2005. When this upcoming season premieres in 2025, it will air exactly 20 years after Underwood’s initial run with the show as a competitor.
Making the moment of her joining the judges even more of a full-circle moment, Underwood’s pink gown brings to mind the pink t-shirt and jeans combo she donned for her original audition. Will she make someone’s dream come true? Stay tuned for updates on the upcoming season of American Idol, and don’t miss the show when it returns next year.
American Idol, Season 23 Premiere, 2025, ABC
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