(Disney/Eric McCandless)

American Idol will not return until 2027, but ABC has locked in Ryan Seacrest as host and the same judging panel of Carrie Underwood, Lionel Ritchie, and Luke Bryan from the last two seasons.

According to Deadline, Luke Bryan announced the return of the panel and host on stage in Nashville, Tennessee. Virtual auditions for the new season began last month.

In a surprise move, Idol-land is relocating to Georgia for the first time. This is closer for Underwood and Bryan, who both live in Nashville, but further for Richie and Seacrest.

The premiere date for season 25 of American Idol will be announced later.

What do you think? Do you enjoy this series? Do you plan to watch the new season?