Luke Bryan, Lionel Richie and Carrie Underwood are returning as judges for Season 25 of the music competition show alongside host Ryan Seacrest. Bryan announced the news on stage at a show in Nashville, Tennessee.

When Luke Bryan took the stage in Nashville on Thursday, fans expected to hear a few of his hit songs like “That’s My Kind of Night” and “Drink a Beer.” But they didn’t imagine the night would take a drastic turn when it was completely taken over by American Idol.

"American Idol" is relocating from California to Georgia after more than two decades of filming in Los Angeles.

Details are few on what parts of the show will be filmed here, but it's likely "American Idol" is moving to Georgia because it didn't quality for a California TV tax credit.

The ABC music competition series is the latest show to move production out of California, following The Masked Singer's move to New Jersey.

The move is the latest blow to the city, which has seen an exodus of productions as shows and movies seek more lucrative tax credits elsewhere.

After more than two decades, the long-running singing competition will produce its upcoming Season 25 in a new home

Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. Monica is an entertainment reporter covering TV, film, and music. May 11, 2026, 12:30pm EDT May 11, 2026, 11:08pm EDT AMERICAN IDOL - "915 (Class of 2006: Reunion / Idol X DWTS)" - At ...

Beloved singer and 'American Idol' judge Lionel Richie has undergone crucial heart surgery, which has forced him to cancel a few tour dates.