American Idol is widening its reach for Season 24 with a major streaming expansion. While the long-running competition series will continue airing on ABC, episodes will now stream live simultaneously on Disney+ beginning March 30. In addition, new episodes will still be available to stream the following day on Hulu, ensuring fans have multiple ways to tune in.
The move follows a strong start to the season. After three days of viewing across ABC, Hulu, Hulu on Disney+, and digital platforms, the Season 24 premiere— which aired January 26— drew 8.27 million total viewers and earned a 1.04 rating among adults ages 18–49. That marks Idol’s most-watched premiere since 2022. By comparison, Season 23’s debut in 2025 attracted 6.88 million viewers with a .97 rating in the same demographic.
More American Idol Content Coming Soon
Fans will soon have even more Idol content to enjoy with the launch of the American Idol Official Podcast, debuting alongside the start of the live shows on Disney+ and Hulu. According to a press release, the podcast will feature exclusive interviews, behind-the-scenes insights, and expert analysis of performances and judges’ critiques.
Season 24 Format Changes and Competition Details
This season introduces several format changes. All auditions were held at Belmont University in Franklin, Tennessee, while Hollywood Week moved to Nashville for the first time. After “Nashville Week,” 30 contestants advanced to the Ohana Round, filmed at the Disney Aulani Resort in Hawaii.
The contestants performed in front of judges Lionel Richie, Luke Bryan, and Carrie Underwood, with Ryan Seacrest returning as host. A new twist this season includes a group of “Industry Tastemakers” who helped evaluate performances. Platinum tickets remain in play, with three selected by this panel during the Hawaii round.
LIONEL RICHIE, ANTHONY GARGIULA, CARRIE UNDERWOOD, RYAN SEACREST
The Ohana Round will air over three weeks:
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March 9 – Top 30 performances
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March 16 & March 23 – Top 20 performances (Parts 1 & 2)
Country star Brad Paisley appears as a guest mentor during the Top 20 round, and Dancing with the Stars pro Sasha Farber was also spotted in Hawaii during filming.
Live Shows and Voting
By the end of March, American Idol will enter its live-show phase, giving viewers the opportunity to vote for their favorite contestants. One singer will ultimately be crowned the next American Idol during the May finale.
With rising ratings, expanded streaming options, and a refreshed format, Season 24 is shaping up to be one of the show’s most ambitious yet.
