How to watch American Idol Season 23 in the UK

The new season of American Idol is back with fresh talent, exciting performances, and the debut of Carrie Underwood as a judge alongside Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie.

American Idol Season 23 (2025) Synopsis

The twenty-third season of American Idol returns in 2025, continuing its legacy as one of the most influential singing competitions on television. This season marks a major shift with the addition of Carrie Underwood as a new judge, replacing Katy Perry, alongside returning judges Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie. With Ryan Seacrest continuing his long-standing role as host, the show promises to bring another batch of talented singers vying for the title of American Idol.

The season begins with nationwide auditions, leading to the Hollywood Round, followed by intense weekly live performances where contestants will battle for America’s votes. Contestants will take on various musical genres and challenges while being mentored by industry legends, including the first-ever Artist-in-Residence, Jelly Roll.

When Does American Idol Season 23 Premiere?

American Idol Season 23 premiered on March 2, 2025, with a special post-Oscars episode, followed by its regular schedule beginning March 9, 2025, airing Sundays at 8:00 PM ET/PT on ABC.

Can you watch American Idol 2025 in the UK?

You can watch American Idol 2025 in the UK by using a VPN to bypass geo-restrictions and access the new season on the ABC App & Website with a cable provider login or stream it on Hulu, YouTube TV, FuboTV, or Hulu + Live TV.

American Idol Season 23 (2025) Episodes

Here are the episodes air dates:

• Episode 1 – Post-Oscars: Auditions, Part 1 (March 2, 2025)
  • Special premiere following the Oscars, featuring the first set of auditions.
• Episode 2 – Auditions, Part 2 (March 9, 2025)
  • More contestants take the stage to impress the judges.
• Episode 3 – Auditions, Part 3 (March 16, 2025)
  • The auditions continue with surprising talent and emotional performances.
• Episode 4 – Auditions, Part 4 (March 23, 2025)
  • More golden tickets are handed out as the audition phase nears its end.
• Episode 5 – Auditions, Part 5 (March 30, 2025)
  • The final batch of auditions wraps up before Hollywood Week begins.
• Episode 6 – Hollywood Week Begins (April 6, 2025)
  • Contestants take on challenging solo and duet performances.
• Episode 7 – Hollywood Week Continues (April 13, 2025)
  • Another intense round of performances determines who moves forward.
• Episode 8 – Showstopper Round (April 20, 2025)
  • Contestants give their biggest performances yet to impress the judges.
• Episode 9 – Live Performances Begin (April 27, 2025)
  • The first live episode where contestants perform for America’s votes.
• Episode 10 – Live Show Continues (May 4, 2025)
  • Another round of live performances as the competition heats up.

American Idol 2025 Cast

Judges:

• Luke Bryan (Returning Judge)
• Lionel Richie (Returning Judge)
• Carrie Underwood (New Judge, Season 4 Winner)

Host:

• Ryan Seacrest (Returning Host)
  Ryan Seacrest continues his long-standing role as the host of American Idol, marking his 23rd season leading the competition.

Artist-in-Residence:

• Jelly Roll – Offers mentorship to contestants.

Is American Idol Suitable for All Ages?

While American Idol is not available to stream entirely for free, there are ways to watch without paying upfront. Hulu offers a free trial for new subscribers, allowing you to watch episodes the day after they air. Additionally, streaming services like YouTube TV, FuboTV, and DIRECTV provide free trial periods that include ABC for live viewing.

FAQs

1. Why did Carrie Underwood join American Idol as a judge?

Carrie Underwood, American Idol Season 4 winner, joined the show as a judge to bring a contestant’s perspective to the panel. Her journey from contestant to superstar makes her a perfect mentor for aspiring singers.

2. Where were the American Idol 2025 auditions held?

Auditions took place virtually through the Idol Across America program from August to September 2024. Select in-person auditions occurred in cities like New York, Nashville, and Los Angeles.

3. What is different about American Idol Season 23?

This season introduces Carrie Underwood as a judge, Jelly Roll as an Artist-in-Residence, and a fresh approach to mentoring, giving contestants more guidance throughout the competition.

4. Will there be a American Idol 2026 (Season 24)?

While ABC has not officially announced renewal plans, the show’s strong ratings and cultural impact suggest that a 24th season is likely.

American Idol Season 23 Trailer

You can watch the trailer for the new season of American Idol here.

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