‘American Idol’ is returning just in time for spring, and season 23 will mark a homecoming for the show’s newest judge: Carrie Underwood.

Carrie — who won season 4 of the singing competition two decades earlier — joins judges Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan and longtime host Ryan Seacrest for the 2025 season, making it the first time an American Idol alum has made their way from the stage to the judge’s table.

This is a “full circle moment” for both Carrie and viewers, said Craig Erwich, the president of Disney Television Group, in a statement. “As a former Idol and dynamic musical force, she brings a remarkably unique perspective to one of the most popular shows on television,” he added. “Welcome home, Carrie.”

Now, she’ll share her thoughts and notes with hopefuls across America trying to earn a ticket to Hollywood and ultimately, to the finals. With the latest crowned idol Abi Carter releasing her debut album and going on tour since clinching the win in May 2024, it’s time to find the next powerful voice.

Here’s everything to know about American Idol’s 2025 season, including when it will premiere, how to watch the new episodes, and the latest details about the series’ return.

When does American Idol season 23 start in 2025?

American Idol season 23 premieres on March 9 at 8 p.m. on ABC.

After the reality competition show kicked off its auditions in August 2024, the judges traveled to different corners of the U.S., stopping at cities and towns over several weeks.

American Idol fans will get a preview of the upcoming season on March 2, when ABC airs a special after the 97th Oscars, which may be around 10:30 p.m. or so. While it won’t be a full episode, fans can watch 30 minutes of Carrie stepping into her new role and a few of the early rounds of auditions.

Who are the judges on American Idol 2025?

The new season of American Idol will be led by judges Lionel, Luke, and Carrie.

Five years after Lionel, Luke, and Katy Perry were tapped to judge American Idol season 16, the trio stuck together for a number of installments until season 22. In February 2024, Katy announced she was leaving the series and teased new music during an appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live!

Following the emotional season 22 finale in May 2024, American Idol revealed that it would be coming back and later that August, Good Morning America unveiled Carrie as Katy’s replacement.

What have the judges said about American Idol season 23?

Although there hasn’t been too much shared about season 23’s contestants, the judges gave a preview of what viewers can expect in an Instagram video posted in November 2024.

“We are finding some incredible talent,” Carrie said, adding she’s loving being on the show as a judge.

Meanwhile, Luke shared that he was “starting to fall in love” with the new group, and Lionel further teased the “out of this world” talent.

Where can I watch and stream American Idol?

When American Idol season 23 premieres on March 9, fans can watch new episodes live on the ABC channel via a TV. Alternatively, viewers can tune in on the ABC website or the ABC app.

For those who can’t watch episodes in real time, catch up on Hulu the next day.