The results are in, and “American Idol” has a winner: Monday nights! The first “American Idol” episode of 2026 drew its biggest audience in four years, Deadline reported on January 28. Season Premiere of ‘American Idol’ Will Re-Air This WeekendPlayAccording to Deadline, “American Idol” drew 5.9 million total viewers for its season 24 premiere — a big jump from 4.49 million the previous year. Who Made It Through on ‘American Idol’ Season Premiere? PlayDuring the season premiere, many talented singers earned a golden ticket to “Hollywood Week,” which will not actually be held in Hollywood.