ABC’s officially renewed American Idol for season 25, as if there were ever any doubt. The competition series continues to be a popular launching pad for singers, with season 24 earning the biggest premiere ratings in four years. And the season 24 finale ranked as the top primetime reality series episode this year.
ABC hasn’t confirmed whether Ryan Seacrest is returning as host or released the names of season 25’s judges. What ABC has confirmed is that the “Idol Across America” audition tour will kick off virtually on August 25, 2026.
During “Idol Across America,” potential contestants will have the opportunity to audition virtually in front of an American Idol producer. Those who are selected may then advance to the judges’ auditions. Aspiring singers must be at least 15 years old by February 15, 2027 to audition.
Season 25’s audition dates:
• VIP Day (Aug. 25): Only the first 250 singers who register will secure a spot for their chance to become the next Idol! Once all spots are claimed, registration for this date closes.
• Florida, Michigan, Virginia, West Virginia (Aug. 26)
• Connecticut, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania (Aug. 27)
• The South Open Call (Aug. 31)
• Illinois, Iowa, Minnesota, Missouri, Wisconsin (Sept. 1)
• Alaska, California, Hawaii, Nevada, Washington (Sept. 2)
• Kansas, Nebraska, North Dakota, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Texas (Sept. 8)
• Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah, Wyoming (Sept. 9)
• Nationwide Open Call (Sept. 11)
• East Coast Open Call (Sept. 14)
• Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina (Sept. 16)
• Indiana, Kentucky, Tennessee, Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont (Sept. 18)
• West and Midwest Open Call (Sept. 21)
• Alabama, Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi (Sept. 23)
• Delaware; Maryland; Ohio; Washington, D.C.; Rhode Island; Massachusetts (Sept. 25)
• Nationwide Open Call (Sept. 28)
For more info, visit americanidol.com/auditions.
