American Idol

American Idol is an American televised singing competition that began in 2002 and became one of the country’s most influential reality music shows.

American Idol is an American televised singing competition that premiered in 2002 and became one of the country’s most influential reality music shows. It originally aired on Fox for 15 seasons, then returned on ABC in 2018, and continued through at least its 24th season in 2026. The series crowns winners through viewer voting and has launched the careers of several major recording artists.

Format

American Idol is a televised singing competition in which contestants audition, advance through multiple rounds, and are ultimately judged by viewer votes. The panel of judges offers critique and guidance, but the winner is selected by the audience.

Broadcast history

The series originally aired on Fox from 2002 to 2016. ABC revived the programme in 2018, and it remained on the air through at least 2026.

Winners

The series has produced many winners, beginning with Kelly Clarkson in 2002. Later winners include Carrie Underwood, Scotty McCreery, Iam Tongi, Abi Carter, Jamal Roberts, and Hannah Harper.

Cultural impact

American Idol became a pop culture phenomenon in the United States and helped define the modern televised talent-competition format. It is widely credited with launching successful recording careers for several winners.