- - Watch the 2026 “American Idol” Judges Take a Trip Down Memory Lane at Idol University (Exclusive)

Daniela AvilaJanuary 1, 2026 at 12:00 AM

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In an exclusive American Idol promo, Lionel Richie, Luke Bryan and Carrie Underwood visit American Idol University

The fictional university features a collection of Idol nostalgia

The clip also features a teaser of the upcoming 2026 season

Lionel Richie, Luke Bryan and Carrie Underwood are taking in some American Idol nostalgia.

In a clip premiering exclusively with PEOPLE on Wednesday, Dec. 31, the singing competition show judges are welcomed to Idol University by longtime host Ryan Seacrest.

"Welcome to American Idol University. With decades of talent on display, I'm so excited for you all to explore these historic halls," Seacrest, 51, says, wearing a royal blue letterman's jacket.

Then, the three judges appear in the highly decorated room wearing similar Idol University gear.

American Idol/YouTube

Luke Bryan, Lionel Richie and Carrie Underwood

"Look at all of these superstars that have graduated from Idol-U," Underwood, 42, says, as the camera shows framed photos of Idol alums like Kelly Clarkson, Jennifer Hudson and Jamal Roberts.

Richie, 76, adds "A dream come true in every direction."

At one point, a display labeled "American Idol by the Numbers" is shown, showcasing the show's awards and platinum records earned.

American Idol key art

"What an incredible amount of lives that have changed," Bryan, 49, says as he gazes at the displays.

"And hairstyles," the "Before He Cheats" singer adds, before a framed wall of Seacrest's hair evolution is shown.

At another point, the judges approach what they think is a wax figure of Clay Aiken, whom Bryan calls "one of the greats." Then, Aiken startles them when he whips his head around and winks at the judges.

Finally, the judges approach a door that says "welcome 2026 Idols."

"American Idol class of 2026 is in session," Underwood says joyfully, before a teaser of the upcoming season plays.

American Idol/YouTube

Clay Aiken and Ryan Seacrest

To wrap up the video, Aiken appears once more and steals Seacrest's line: "Who will be the next American Idol?"

"Um, that's my line!" Seacrest says, walking into the frame.

American Idol season 24 premieres on Jan. 26 on ABC.

on People

Original Article on Source

Source: “AOL Entertainment”