"American Idol" has set its judges for Season 24, andCarrie Underwoodis coming home again – again. Underwood,Luke BryanandLionel Richieare returning as judges for the singing competition show's next season, ABC confirmed on Monday, Aug. 25. Underwoodmade her debut as an "American Idol" judgeduring the 23rd season earlier this year after she was tapped to replace departing judgeKaty Perry. The "Jesus, Take the Wheel" singer was the first former "American Idol" winner to come back and serve as a judge. In a back-to-school themedannouncement video released on Aug. 25, Underwood, Bryan and Richie declared that "class is back in session" for prospective "American Idol" competitors. "The three judges are back for another amazing season of 'Idol' university," Richie said. "The only thing that's missing is you." Auditions for Season 24 of "American Idol," which airs in 2026, will begin on Tuesday, Aug. 26. 'American Idol'finale reveals 2025 winner after return visit from Stockton grad Filo The show's most recent season aired from March to May, concluding with the crowning ofJamal Robertsas the winner. Bryan, 49, and Richie, 76, both made their debuts as "American Idol" judges in 2018. They joined for the 16th season, the show's first to air on ABC after its move from Fox. Perry also made her debut as a judge that year, butannounced in 2024 that she would leave the showafter seven seasons to focus on her music. She released a new album, "143," later that year. Carrie Underwoodset as Katy Perry's 'American Idol' replacement for Season 23 Speaking with USA TODAYin May, Bryan said that he had not yet started talking with "American Idol" producers about his possible return, so "we'll hear what the direction is." He added, "Me and (host) Ryan (Seacrest) and Lionel have been here for eight years and have really worked hard." Underwood, 42, also told USA TODAY at the time that "we will see" about whether she returns as a judge. "I feel like there's a lot of contemplating and things like that to do, but I had a lot of fun," she said. "You never know where the good Lord's going to take me, but I'm glad I'm here." Contributing: KiMi Robinson, USA TODAY This article originally appeared on USA TODAY:'American Idol' Season 24 judges revealed: Here's who's returning
