American Idol is keeping its heavy country music crew for 2026: Luke Bryan and Carrie Underwood are both returning to the judges table when the reality singing competition returns next spring.

The show announced all three judges from Season 23 will be returning for the next installment with a fun back-to-school themed promotional video on social media.

Underwood, Bryan and fellow judge Lionel Richie pack lunches and pour coffee while announcing the audition schedule for the upcoming season.

"Class is back in session," Bryan says to the camera, while Underwood adds, "And this year we're majoring in music as we help launch your dreams."

Each judge has taken on the role of a different professor in this promo. Richie is the Professor of Positivity, while Bryan is the Professor of

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