Episode guide
American Idol: Season 9
16 episodes · premiered Jan 26, 2026
TMDB has no overview for this season.
- Episode 1: 901 (Auditions) Jan 26, 2026 · 1h 26m Luke, Lionel, Carrie and Ryan welcome the newest class of hopefuls to Idol University in Nashville, where future stars take their first steps toward becoming the next "American Idol."
- Episode 2: 902 (Auditions) Feb 2, 2026 · 1h 26m Auditions continue, with hopefuls stepping into the spotlight and delivering unforgettable performances.
- Episode 3: 903 (Auditions) Feb 9, 2026 · 1h 26m The stakes continue to rise as additional hopefuls face the judges with electrifying performances, each vying for a chance at the coveted golden ticket.
- Episode 4: 904 (Auditions) Feb 16, 2026 · 1h 26m In the final week of auditions, rising stars deliver showstopping performances that stun Luke, Lionel, Carrie and Ryan, setting the stage for Hollywood Week.
- Episode 5: 905 (Hollywood Week in Music City (1)) Feb 23, 2026 · 1h 26m For the first time, Idol is bringing Hollywood Week to Music City as hopefuls take the stage for a make-or-break performance and face the biggest Hollywood Week cut in Idol history.
- Episode 6: 906 (Hollywood Week in Music City (2)) Mar 2, 2026 · 1h 26m Hollywood Week in Music City continues, pushing hopefuls to their maximum potential as they compete to wow the judges; in the end, only 30 move forward.
- Episode 7: 907 ('Ohana Round) Mar 9, 2026 · 1h 26m At Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa in Ko Olina, Hawai'i, hopefuls take the stage to perform for their own families, industry tastemakers and their fellow hopefuls; 20 contestants move forward.
- Episode 8: 908 (Top 20 at Disney's Aulani Resort in Hawai'i (1)) Mar 16, 2026 · 1h 26m As the competition continues at Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa in Ko Olina, Hawaiʻi, Brad Paisley and Keke Palmer mentor the Top 20 hopefuls. Keke also serves as a guest judge, while Iam…
- Episode 9: 909 (Top 20 at Disney's Aulani Resort in Hawai'i (2)) Mar 23, 2026 · 1h 26m In the final week at Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa in Ko Olina, Hawai'i, Brad Paisley and Keke Palmer continue mentoring the top 20 hopefuls, Keke returns to the judging panel and takes…
- Episode 10: Songs of Faith Mar 30, 2026 · 1h 29m The hopefuls lift their voices in inspiring songs of faith, 12 finalists continue on the journey to become the next singing sensation.
- Episode 11: 911 (90s Judges' Song Contest) Apr 6, 2026 · 1h 25m The Top 12 perform '90s hits secretly picked by Luke Bryan, Lionel Richie or Carrie Underwood; stars of ABC's "TGIF" '90s lineup hang with the hopefuls in the lounge as America votes for…
- Episode 12: 912 (Rock & Roll Hall of Fame) Apr 13, 2026 · 1h 25m The Top 11 perform iconic hits from Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductees; inductees for the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame class of 2026 ceremony are revealed.
- Episode 13: 913 (Disney Night) Apr 20, 2026 · 1h 25m The Top 9 bring iconic Disney songs to life as America votes live to decide which seven finalists move one step closer to their dream of becoming the next "American Idol."
- Episode 14: 914 (Celebrating Taylor Swift on American Idol) Apr 27, 2026 · 1h 25m The Top 7 celebrate Taylor Swift's chart-topping hits and defining eras as America votes live to reveal the Top 5; a salute to California's biggest artists; Nikki Glaser guest judges.
- Episode 15: 915 (Class of 2006: Reunion/Idol X DWTS) May 4, 2026 · 1h 25m At the "American Idol" 20th high school reunion, fan-favorite idols from the class of 2006, along with special guests, return as "Dancing With the Stars" pros bring some ballroom flair to…
- Episode 16: 916 (Grand Finale) May 11, 2026 · 2h 8m The Top 3 finalists give their all for the last chance to earn America's vote; Alicia Keys performs and serves as guest mentor; special performances from other music legends and today's…