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See Why the First American Idol Season 22 Teaser Is Music to Our Ears

E! News’ exclusive first look at American Idol season 22 shows judges Katy Perry, Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan embarking on the singing competition’s hometown visits.

By Alexandra Bellusci Nov 08, 2023 8:00 PMTags
Watch: American Idol: First Look At Upcoming Season!

American Idol's upcoming season is already hitting a high note.

Katy Perry, Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan teased season 22 of the competition show in E! News' exclusive clip showcasing what's in store.

"American Idol goes all over the nation," Luke says as footage of the judges at a high school gymnasium flashes across the screen.

"The hometowns big and small," the country star noted, before Katy added, "In search of America's next superstar."

Clips of the trio's homecomings to their hometowns include the stars smiling with military service members, sending contestants to Hollywood and walking in front of an airplane in leather jackets before the ABC show announces a return date: February 2024.

"Home is where the dream starts," host Ryan Seacrest shares in the video. "American Idol is where the dream takes off."

The video—which will air during the CMA Awards on Nov. 8—concludes with a look at some of the new contestants before Katy, Lionel and Luke raise their glasses to toast to the new season.

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American Idol: Where Are They Now?

Over the summer, the audition dates across all 50 states were revealed, with first rounds kicking off Aug. 2.

And these musical hopefuls have big shoes to fill, after Hawaiian singer Iam Tongi was named winner of season 21. Following his crowning, Katy took a moment to reflect on the whirlwind year. 

Eric McCandless/ABC via Getty Images

"It's been emotional, like a good therapy session," she told E! News in May. "Just to see these kids, young people—younger than me—just grow and get what they came for. Even if they didn't win, they got what they came for. There's something that was sparked in them that can never be put back or be not believed in."

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