What is the audition process for American Idol?
Contestants travel to audition cities and perform in front of producers. Those who pass move to a second round in Hollywood, where they face more challenges before the judges decide who stays.
How many judges are on the panel?
Typically four judges: a record executive, a pop star, an actor, and a television host. They offer critiques and help eliminate contestants.
How does voting work after each live show?
Viewers can vote by phone or online during a two‑hour window after the episode ends. The lowest‑scoring contestant is eliminated.
Are contestants paid for appearing on the show?
Yes, finalists receive a stipend per episode and can earn additional money from a summer tour if they advance.
Do contestants choose their own songs?
Contestants select from a pre‑approved list of songs that match the week's theme.
What happens after a contestant is eliminated?
Eliminated contestants typically participate in a post‑show dinner with remaining contestants and then return to their regular lives.
Can a contestant travel from another state for an audition?
Yes, contestants from any U.S. location may travel to the nearest audition city, though travel costs are on them.
Do judges have the final say in who stays?
Judges vote on who remains after the initial rounds, but public voting ultimately determines elimination in later episodes.
How are performance themes chosen?
Show producers set weekly themes to challenge contestants and keep the format fresh.
What is the role of the producer’s wardrobe allowance?
Contestants receive a budget for outfits and have a stylist help choose appropriate looks for each performance.
How many contestants start the competition?
Several hundred audition; the show narrows the field to a top 12 or 10 finalists for live broadcasts.
Is there a limit on the age of contestants?
Yes, contestants must meet the minimum age requirement (typically 16 or older, depending on the season).
Do family members attend the live shows?
Yes, finalists’ family and friends may sit in the audience, though they are not compensated.
What types of songs are available for selection?
A curated list of popular, recent, and classic songs is provided, ensuring licensing compliance for broadcasts.
Do producers release contestants’ performances?
Performances are often released as singles and made available for download following the live broadcast.
What happens during the week between shows?
Finalists shop for outfits, rehearse, film commercials, and prepare for the next live performance.
How is the performance order decided?
Producers arrange the order based on song choice and other creative factors.
What is the purpose of the live finale?
The finale showcases the top contestants in a final showdown, culminating in a new original song by the winner.
Do contestants have to sign contracts?
Yes, finalists sign restrictive contracts that grant producers the right to manage their early music releases.
How do the voting numbers stay confidential?
The show withholds specific vote totals to maintain suspense and encourage continued viewership.
Can contestants appear on the summer tour?
Top 10 contestants often join the American Idol Summer Tour for additional performance opportunities.
Are there any restrictions on language used on the show?
Contestants may use mild language, but profanity is typically edited to keep the program family friendly.
What type of themes do contestants perform under?
Themes vary from pop, rock, and country to specific eras or musical genres, challenging singers to diversify their repertoire.
How long does each live episode run?
Live episodes are about two hours, including performances, commentary, and audience voting segments.