American Idol Television Schedule: Season 23 Premiere Date and More

American Idol returns to ABC for its 23rd season (8th on ABC) on Sunday, March 9th, 2025, at 8 PM EST. This highly anticipated premiere marks a significant milestone, as original winner Carrie Underwood joins the judging panel alongside Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie. Ryan Seacrest continues his role as the show’s long-standing host. Find out more about the upcoming season and ABC’s midseason schedule below.

American Idol’s New Judging Panel

The return of Carrie Underwood as a judge is a major draw for the upcoming season. Underwood, who won the competition 20 years prior, replaces Katy Perry, who departed the show to focus on her music career. The new judging panel brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the show, with country superstars Luke Bryan and Carrie Underwood, and music legend Lionel Richie, providing valuable guidance to aspiring singers. Ryan Seacrest continues to helm the show, providing his signature charm and hosting prowess. This dynamic combination promises an exciting season filled with talent, emotion, and unforgettable moments.

ABC’s Midseason Schedule: A Full Lineup of Entertainment

American Idol’s premiere is part of ABC’s broader midseason schedule, which features a diverse range of programming, including new series premieres and returning favorites.

Key Premiere Dates:

• Sunday, March 9th: American Idol Season 23 premieres at 8 PM EST, followed by The $100,000 Pyramid at 10 PM EST.
• Thursday, March 6th: Returning dramas 9-1-1, Doctor Odyssey, and Grey’s Anatomy resume their seasons.
• Sunday, January 5th: America’s Funniest Home Videos (AFV) returns for its midseason run.
• Thursday, January 2nd: Extreme Makeover: Home Edition premieres, followed by the season two premiere of Only Murders in the Building.

The full midseason schedule includes a variety of genres, from reality competitions and dramas to comedies and game shows, offering something for every viewer. Consult the complete schedule below for specific dates and times.

Complete ABC Midseason Premiere Dates (Eastern/Pacific Time):

THURSDAY, JAN 2

• 8:00 p.m. – “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” (Series Premiere)
• 9:00 p.m – “Only Murders in the Building” (Broadcast Season Two Premiere – two hours)

SUNDAY, JAN 5

• 7:00 p.m. – “AFV” (Midseason Return)
• 8:00 p.m. – The Wonderful World of Disney

TUESDAY, JAN 7

• 8:00 p.m. – “Will Trent” (Season Three Premiere)
• 9:00 p.m. – “High Potential” (Midseason Return)
• 10:00 p.m. – “The Rookie” (Season Seven Premiere)

WEDNESDAY, JAN 8

• 8:00 p.m. – “Shifting Gears” (Series Premiere)
• 8:30 p.m. – “Abbott Elementary” (Midseason Return)
• 9:02 p.m. – “Celebrity Jeopardy!” (Season Three Premiere)
• 10:02 p.m. – “What Would You Do?” (Midseason Return)

FRIDAY, JAN 17

• 8:00 p.m. – “Shark Tank” (Midseason Return)

SATURDAY, JAN 25

• 8:00 p.m. – “NBA Countdown Presented by Papa Johns”
• 8:30 p.m. – Los Angeles Lakers at Golden State Warriors

MONDAY, JAN 27

• 8:00 p.m. – “The Bachelor” (Season 29 Premiere – two hours)
• 10:01 p.m. – “The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives” (Broadcast Series Premiere)

THURSDAY, JAN 30

• 9:00 p.m. – “Scamanda” (Series Premiere)
• 10:00 p.m. – “Perfect Wife: The Mysterious Disappearance of Sherri Papini” (Broadcast Series Premiere)

SUNDAY, MAR 9

• 8:00 p.m. – “American Idol” (Season Eight Premiere – two hours)
• 10:00 p.m. – “The $100,000 Pyramid” (Season Eight Premiere)

Don’t miss the return of American Idol and other exciting shows on ABC this midseason. Check your local listings for accurate times.