Ryan Seacrest Signs On For Season 24 of 'American Idol'
It's no secret that American Idol has been one of the most popular reality and competition series of all time. From the raw auditions to the live voting from home, fans love watching people you may not have known otherwise sing their hearts out and compete to become the next Kelly Clarkson or Carrie Underwood.
Following a successful 23rd season, which featured Ryan and a superstar panel of judges, show alum Carrie Underwood, Luke Bryan, and Lionel Richie, fans were left wondering exactly who would return for the next season, hoping to see some familiar faces.
Earlier this month, it was revealed that the three superstar judges would be returning for an exciting new season, which they announced in a fun Instagram reel. Fans were already thrilled to see that popular judges like Carrie were returning, and it's been confirmed that Ryan will be returning as the host as well.
As reported by the New York Post, the longtime host has been confirmed to return for season 24, signing a new contract for 2026. This will be his 24th consecutive season, as he's been with the show since its start in 2002.
Ryan Admitted He Was 'Depressed' To Be Still Single Ahead OF The Next' Idol' Season
While his career as a successful television show host is still going strong, the Georgia native has opened up about more of his personal life and how his love life isn't exactly where he hoped it would be. Throughout the last few years and months, Ryan has spoken about his relationship status, as he broke up with his younger girlfriend of three years, model Aubrey Paige Petcosky, last April.
In 2021, he gave an interview where he mentioned that although he was having good dating and relationship experiences, having children was still on his mind.
"I haven't even gone down that path, which is nuts at my age," he told The Wall Street Journal. "I think in the last year, it's become clear to me that yes, I do want to do that. ... I want to be available and present."
Then, more recently, in May, a year after his breakup, Ryan commented on an American Idol performance by Thunderstorm Artis during last season's May 11th episode that stirred up some emotions in him.
"It is a beautiful song with beautiful lyrics. I just printed them out backstage," he said before quoting the singer's original lyrics, as reported by The Daily Express. "'Your green eyes are soft like the summer, and your touch can put out the embers of my burning heart from that gray December.' I've never been more depressed to be single than right now in this moment."
We can only hope that as he enters a new American Idol chapter, the host finds some happiness in his love life as well.