Such a great episode of @AmericanIdol tonight. I’ve already seen all of these auditions and I’m being blown away for the second time. What a blessing to be a part of it all…again.
— Carrie Underwood (@carrieunderwood) March 17, 2025
Carson Webb and Josh King, two singers from North Carolina, are headed to Hollywood after impressing the judges during their auditions for the newest season of American Idol. Josh King from Charlotte and Granite Falls native Carson Webb both secured their golden tickets, advancing them to the next round of the competition. Judges Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan voted yes for King.
Webb, a former Idol winner, also impressed the judges with his audition on Sunday night.
How great is Lashon? So much talent. Such a positive attitude. You can tell she wants it so bad. She’s going to be a ⭐️! My favorite original song during auditions!!! #ARTIST @AmericanIdol
— Carrie Underwood (@carrieunderwood) March 17, 2025
Judge Carrie Underwood, who returned to the show two decades after her own win, expressed her excitement about being back. “They’re probably going to get sick of ‘when I was on the show,'” laughed Underwood.
“Luke, STFU” is definitely gonna be Caroline's fave audition tonight on American Idol. pic.twitter.com/400cQIOVAP
— Luke Bryan (@lukebryan) March 16, 2025
“For the past 20 years, I’ve been blessed enough to come back, be a part of it, be a mentor, perform. This is home.”
You can watch both King and Webb’s auditions on Sunday, March 16 on ABC at 8 p.m. EST.
Get it, cuz, get it. Get it, cuz, get it. Ride, ride, ride… #AmericanIdol
— Ryan Seacrest (@RyanSeacrest) March 17, 2025
The hit ABC show American Idol is introducing a new era in 2025 with some exciting changes for its 23rd season.
artists advance to Hollywood round
One of the most noteworthy additions is the introduction of an Artist in Residence — a role aimed at providing contestants with consistent mentorship throughout the competition. Country superstar Jelly Roll has been revealed as American Idol’s first-ever Artist in Residence for season 23.
The announcement, made in early February, was accompanied by a promotional clip featuring Jelly Roll and host Ryan Seacrest. “Had to lift up @ryanseacrest just like I’m gonna lift up the @americanidol hopefuls!” Jelly Roll wrote on his social media. “Honored to be Idol’s first-ever ARTIST IN RESIDENCE—mentoring with heart, soul, and real experience!”
Jelly Roll, who originally entered the music scene as a rapper before gaining recognition in the country music genre, brings a wealth of experience and enthusiasm to the role.
His involvement marks his second appearance on the show, having previously served as a mentor during the visit to Disney’s Aulani Resort in Hawaii. While Jelly Roll will provide ongoing mentorship throughout the season, the show has also confirmed that artists like Josh Groban will serve as mentors during the Hawaii portion of the competition. With these new and exciting changes, fans can expect season 23 of American Idol to be filled with unique talent and memorable performances.
Make sure to tune in starting March 9 on ABC and streaming on Hulu.
Photo by; Elizeu Dias on Unsplash