Ryan Seacrest will return as host of American Idol for its 24th overall season and ninth on ABC, the network confirmed Wednesday. The nationally syndicated radio host remains the show’s only on-camera personality to appear in every season since the series launched, solidifying his long-running presence as the face of the talent competition.
Seacrest’s new agreement follows closely on the heels of deals inked by the show’s judges.
Luke Bryan, Lionel Richie and Carrie Underwood all signed contracts to return for the 2026 season just two weeks ago, according to a report in the Hollywood Reporter.
This year, American Idol is kicking off its next production cycle with virtual auditions, which will continue over the next couple of weeks. The early signing of Seacrest ensures continuity as the show prepares to enter its first-quarter 2026 premiere.
Seacrest’s tenure on Idol has made him a defining presence in the reality competition genre, and his return is seen as a stabilizing factor for both the network and the franchise.
As the 24th season approaches, producers are promising a mix of new talent and familiar production elements that have helped the show endure for more than two decades.
Fremantle and 19 Entertainment produce the series. Showrunner Megan Wolflick executive produces with 19 Entertainment’s Eli Holzman and Aaron Saidman.
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