“American Idol” Judges and Host to Return for Season 20

Jennifer Mullin, Trish Kinane, Megan Michaels Wolflick, Ryan Seacrest, Luke Bryan, Katy Perry, and Lionel Richie at an ABC
Jennifer Mullin, Trish Kinane, Megan Michaels Wolflick, Ryan Seacrest, Luke Bryan, Katy Perry, and Lionel Richie at an ABC "American Idol" panel in 2018. Photo by David Buchan/Variety/REX/Shutterstock (9310286a)

American Idol judges Katy Perry, Luke Bryan, and Lionel Richie as well as host Ryan Seacrest will be returning for the show’s 20th season in Spring 2022.

“Luke, Katy, Lionel and Ryan are music and industry icons that have become synonymous with ‘Idol’ on ABC,” said Rob Mills, executive vice president, unscripted and alternative Entertainment, Walt Disney Television via Variety. “Their star power is unmatched, and their support is a gift to our contestants that have deeply benefited from their wisdom over the past four seasons—and they’re ready to do it again. As we begin a momentous season, I think it’s safe to say this dream team has officially cemented their legacy on ‘Idol.’”

The show was renewed for the 2021-2022 season in May, but the judges and hosts weren’t secured. Perry, Bryan, and Richie have been judges since the show was revived on ABC in 2018.

The show’s “Idol Across America” virtual auditions start on August 6 and will run until September 21.