who are the current american idol judges

The current American Idol judges for the 2026 season (Season 24) are:
- Carrie Underwood
- Luke Bryan
- Lionel Richie
Quick Scoop: American Idol 2026 Judges
For the upcoming 2026 run of American Idol (Season 24 on ABC), the show is keeping its now-familiar three-judge lineup.
- Carrie Underwood – Former winner turned judge, returning after first joining the panel in Season 23 and replacing Katy Perry.
- Luke Bryan – Country star who has been part of the ABC-era judging team since the show’s revival in 2018.
- Lionel Richie – Music legend and long-time judge alongside Bryan during the ABC seasons.
Ryan Seacrest is also back as host for Season 24, continuing his long-running role guiding contestants and viewers through the competition.
So if you’re wondering “who are the current American Idol judges” for the latest season airing in 2026, it’s this trio: Carrie Underwood, Luke Bryan, and Lionel Richie.
TL;DR: The current American Idol judges for the 2026 season are Carrie Underwood, Luke Bryan, and Lionel Richie, with Ryan Seacrest returning as host.
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