When will 'American Idol' Season 22 Episode 2 air? Vocal showdown takes center stage in ABC show's latest episode

The 'American Idol' Season 22 episodes may feature more emotional moments, impactful performances, and possibly some unexpected twists
UPDATED FEB 19, 2024
'American Idol' Season 22 judges Luke Bryan, Lionel Richie, Katy Perry with host Ryan Seacrest (YouTube/@AmericanIdol)
'American Idol' Season 22 judges Luke Bryan, Lionel Richie, Katy Perry with host Ryan Seacrest (YouTube/@AmericanIdol)

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: 'American Idol' Season 22 Episode 2 is all set to air on February 26, 2024, at 8 PM ET.

The debut episode is scheduled to premiere on Sunday, February 18 at 8 pm ET. The two-hour-long premiere episode will be available for viewers to watch the next day on Hulu.

Following the success of Season 21, which aired on February 19, 2023, 'American Idol' is making a return to discover new talented singers.

ABC announced in July 2023 that the show had been renewed for a brand new season, and auditions began shortly after.

The previous season was a massive hit, featuring standout contestants such as Iam Tongi, Megan Danielle, and Collin Stough. Iam Tongi emerged as the winner of 'American Idol' Season 21.

This nationwide talent search for singers first aired on Fox from June 2002 to April 2016 for 15 seasons and was later picked up by ABC in 2018.

The familiar judge's panel featuring pop singer Katy Perry, country musician Luke Bryan, and famed musician Lionel Richie is all set to return for Season 22.

This trio has been a consistent part of the singing show since its relaunch on ABC in 2018.

Where to watch American Idol Season 22? 

'American Idol' Season 22 is scheduled to premiere on Sunday, February 18, at 8 pm ET on ABC.

For those without access to live broadcasts, episodes can be streamed on Hulu starting at 3 am ET the next day. Hulu subscription packages begin at $7.99/month with ads, while the ad-free package starts from $10/month.

Luke Bryan leaks 'American Idol' Season 21 winner before the announcement (Instagram/lukebryan)
'American Idol' judges, host Ryan Seacrest with the winner of 'American Idol' Season 21, Iam Tongi (Instagram/lukebryan)

What happened in American Idol Season 22 Episode 1? 

Season 22 commenced with its first episode of auditions on Sunday night, February 18, at 8 pm Eastern on ABC.

Returning as the host, Ryan Seacrest led another season filled with aspiring talents. The judges, including Katy Perry, embarked on a journey across the country in search of the next undiscovered musical sensation, making stops in Georgia, Alabama, California, and Tennessee.

A sneak peek video released by ABC featured a contestant's full audition, leaving Katy Perry in tears by the end. McKenna Breinholt entered the American Idol audition room, bravely sharing her story of being adopted.

Upon turning 21, she sought to learn about her birth mother from her adoptive parents. Eventually, McKenna connected with her entire birth family through FaceTime.

Unfortunately, her birth mother had passed away, and McKenna never had the chance to meet her. In her audition, McKenna emotionally performed 'There Was Jesus' by Zach Williams and Dolly Parton. 

The episode kick-started with auditions which featured standout performances, with Mackenzie Sol, a Las Vegas resident, captivating the judges with "Bring it On Home to Me" by Sam Cooke. His soulful performance earned a standing ovation, and the judges praised his charismatic personality and vocal skills. Katy Perry even predicted he could make it to the Top 10.

Triston Harper from McIntosh, Alabama, followed with a compelling rendition of "Cover Me Up" by Jason Isbell, showcasing a surprising vocal range, as the judges expressed admiration for his authenticity, and he secured a ticket to Hollywood.

Next up, Ajii, a 27-year-old nursing home security guard from Brooklyn, New York, impressed the judges with his powerful rendition of "Lose Control" by Teddy Swims. Jugde Lionel Richie applauded his performance, and Ajii earned a unanimous "yes" to Hollywood. Followed by Blake Proehl, a former NFL player turned musician from Charlotte, North Carolina, delivered a moving performance of "In Case You Didn't Know" by Brett Young. His heartfelt singing earned him a resounding "yes" to Hollywood. 

Other contestant, Micaela McCall, a 28-year-old voice and piano teacher from Santa Barbara, put her unique spin on Stevie Wonder's "Signed, Sealed, Delivered," who also secured a positive response from the judges and advanced to Hollywood. But Odell Bunton Jr., a 28-year-old security guard from Austin, Texas, took the spotlight as he delivered a soulful rendition of "Bring it On Home to Me" by Sam Cooke, leading to a platinum ticket and enthusiastic praise from the judges.

The auditions concluded with Triston Harper from McIntosh, Alabama, also receiving a coveted ticket to Hollywood. 

'American Idol' Season 22 contestant McKenna Breinholt is surprised by her birth family's visit (ABC)
McKenna Breinholt's family at 'American Idol' Season 22 (ABC)

What to expect in American Idol Season 22 Episode 2? 

The judges which include Katy Perry, Luke Bryan, and Lionel Richie will be encountering a diverse range of talents with unique stories and performances.

The episodes may feature more emotional moments, impactful performances, and possibly some unexpected twists.

Abi Carter earns spot as top 24 contestant

According to Idol spoilers, Abi Carter's journey on American Idol Season 22 took a significant step forward as she performed her audition song at the Platinum Ticket Ceremony, securing her spot as one of the top 24 contestants.

During the ceremony, Abi showcased her singing talent, leaving a lasting impression on the judges.

Her performance not only earned her a Platinum Ticket but also granted her the opportunity to advance to the next stage of the competition. 

Lionel Richie (L) talks about Katy Perry’s 'American Idol' exit announcement (Getty Images)
'American Idol' Season 22 judges Lionel Richie and Katy Perry (Getty Images)
RELATED TOPICS AMERICAN IDOL (2002) THE IDOL ABC TV NETWORK

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