When does 'American Idol' start? 2024 premiere date, time, judges, where to watch Season 22

Get ready to sing your heart out, because Season 22 of "American Idol" returns to screens this month.

Season 22 of the long-running reality singing competition comes back with returning host Ryan Seacrest and judges Luke Bryan, Katy Perry and Lionel Ritchie. After seven seasons, this will be Perry's last season as judge, as the singer announced her impending departure from the show Monday on "Jimmy Kimmel Live!"

On air since 2002, "American Idol" has launched the career for a number of artists over its 22 seasons, including Kelly Clarkson, Carrie Underwood, Jennifer Hudson, Adam Lambert, Clay Aiken and others.

The season kicks off with three episodes of auditions before the lucky group of singers receive the coveted trip to Hollywood.

Here's what to know about Season 22 of "American Idol," including how and where to watch the latest season.

When is the 'American Idol' Season 22 premiere?

"American Idol" Season 22 premieres Sunday, Feb. 18 at 8 p.m. EST on ABC. New episodes will air every Sunday.

'American Idol':Before Katy Perry's farewell season, judges spill show secrets

How to watch 'American Idol' Season 22

You can watch new episodes of "American Idol" live on ABC.

If you miss watching it live or don't have cable, you can watch episodes on demand and on Hulu the following day.

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Who are the judges on 'American Idol' Season 22?

Judges Katy Perry, Luke Bryan and Lionel Ritchie return for Season 22.

Ryan Seacrest also returns as host, and has been with "American Idol" for nearly every season.

Perry announced on "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" that Season 22 will be her last as a judge on "American Idol." She told Kimmel that the other judges were aware she has "some things planned for this year," including performing at the Rock in Rio music festival in Brazil.

Where were the 'American Idol' Season 22 auditions?

The show held both virtual and in-person auditions for Season 22. In-person auditions took place in 2023 in Los Angles, as well as the judge's hometowns:

• Leesburg, Georgia (Sept. 19-20)
• Tuskegee, Alabama (Oct. 2-3)
• Santa Barbara, California (Oct. 17-18)
• Los Angeles, California (Oct. 24-25)
• Nashville, Tennessee (Nov. 11-12)

Who won 'American Idol' Season 21?

Iam Tongi was the Season 21 winner, with Megan Danielle finishing as the runner-up. Colin Stough finished in third place.

Watch the 'American Idol' Season 22 trailer

Contributing: Brendan Morrow, USA TODAY

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