American Idol began its ninth season on ABC (Season 24 overall) last Monday with host Ryan Seacrest and judges Lionel Richie, Carrie Underwood and Luke Bryan all returning to the search for the next singing sensation.
As previously announced, there will be several new twists this season, including one when the Top 20 head to the Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa in Ko Olina, Hawaiʻi where they will perform in hopes of making it further in the competition.
Helping them in their journey will be this season’s American Idol Top 20 mentors Keke Palmer and Brad Paisley, who revealed the news in a fun Instagram post with Keke pretending to be an owl.
She said, “This is our impression of an owl, who’s going to be a mentor on American Idol.”
To which American Idol responded: “The duo no one knew they needed!! 🤩🌴 Can’t wait for this.”
The new twist taking place at the Aulani is the brand-new ‘Ohana Round. It is one night of the three-episode arc in Hawaii, following the iconic Hollywood Week, offering hopefuls a distinct moment in the competition. Designed as the ultimate focus group, the ’Ohana Round blends peer respect, emotional support and professional insight before the competition moves on to America’s Vote.
Keke and Brad will be featured in Episode 908, Top 20 at Disney’s Aulani Resort in Hawai‘i – Part 1, airing Monday, March 16, and Episode 909, Top 20 at Disney’s Aulani Resort in Hawai‘i – Part 2, airing Monday, March 23.
American Idol airs Monday nights at 8 p.m. ET/PT on ABC. Streams next day on Hulu.
