What Happened
American Idol has officially transitioned from auditions to Hollywood Week for its 24th season, which began airing on February 23, 2026. This year, the auditions were uniquely held at Belmont University in Nashville, marking a significant change in the show’s traditional filming locations. Contestants who received golden tickets, including Arizona hopefuls Kitty Taye and Lanii, will now compete in Nashville instead of Hollywood.
Why It Matters
The shift to Nashville for both auditions and Hollywood Week reflects a strategic decision by ABC to revamp the show’s format. Showrunner Megan Michaels Wolflick emphasized the importance of maintaining momentum for contestants, as the time gap between auditions and Hollywood Week has been eliminated. This change aims to enhance viewer engagement and excitement, as contestants will immediately progress to the next round without a lengthy waiting period.
What’s Next
As Hollywood Week unfolds, viewers can expect the largest cuts in American Idol history, intensifying the competition among contestants. The judging panel for this season includes Lionel Richie, Luke Bryan, and Carrie Underwood, who joined the show after Katy Perry’s departure. Fans can watch the latest episodes live on ABC, ensuring they do not miss any performances or eliminations.
