7 days ago
Is Luke Bryan Leaving 'American Idol'? What We Know
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources.
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Luke Bryan's future on American Idol is uncertain as the show heads into its 24th season.
Newsweek reached out to Bryan's representative via email for comment on Friday.
Why It Matters
American Idol, a reality television singing competition hosted by Ryan Seacrest, premiered in June 2002. Bryan has served as a judge on the show since 2018, when it was revived by ABC. From 2016 to 2018, the series was on hiatus after its 15th season on FOX.
Over the years, there have been many American Idol judges including Simon Cowell, Paula Abdul, Randy Jackson, Katy Perry, Jennifer Lopez, Mariah Carey, Nicki Minaj, Harry Connick Jr. and Keith Urban. The most recent lineup featured Bryan, Carrie Underwood and Lionel Richie.
Luke Bryan attends the "American Idol" 20th Anniversary Celebration at Desert 5 Spot on April 18, 2022 in Los Angeles, California.
Luke Bryan attends the "American Idol" 20th Anniversary Celebration at Desert 5 Spot on April 18, 2022 in Los Angeles, To Know
In an interview with Taste of Country, which was published on Wednesday, Bryan implied his seat at the judge's table isn't confirmed yet for Season 24.
"Idol is kind of a year-by-year, 'Do we do it or not?'" the "Country Girl" singer told the outlet. "Last year was really really incredible with Carrie and Lionel and Ryan, and the main thing is just, have fun with American Idol and have fun with the kids [contestants]."
"We'll see what happens," he said.
Underwood, who won American Idol in 2005, wrapped up her first season as a judge in the spring.
"I know she had a great time in the role," Bryan shared, adding that the chance of her returning is "highly favorable."
In an interview with Entertainment Tonight (ET) in May following the Season 23 finale, Bryan said he wanted to stay on as a judge for the hit show.
"Hopefully the phone will start ringing," he told them.
Last year, ahead of Season 23, the country star hinted that ABC's parent company, Disney, doesn't share information about American Idol's judges quickly.
"It's been interesting. It's been something Disney [has] been really tightlipped about with me and Lionel and Ryan," he told Billboard in July 2024 following Perry's exit. "We currently haven't heard what the story is on who's coming back, and if Lionel and I are coming back. I think Disney is just trying to figure out what they want to do and we're just kind of sitting back and waiting until they decide."
What People Are Saying
Underwood kept things vague about her American Idol future during a conversation with ET: "I don't know! There's lots to contemplate."
Richie told ET: "Are you kidding me? I wouldn't miss this for the world."
What Happens Next
American Idol's Season 24 premiere date has not yet been announced.
