Get ready for some serious aloha energy! American Idol Season 24 is bringing the heat with its boldest format twist yet — the brand-new ‘Ohana Round filmed in stunning Hawaii.

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This exciting addition is shaking up the competition and giving fans something fresh to rave about. Here’s everything you need to know about this game-changing round!

🌺 Why the ‘Ohana Round Is the Talk of the Season

American Idol has always evolved, but Season 24 takes it to paradise! After the intense Music City Takeover in Nashville, the Top 30 American Idol contestants jet off to Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa in Ko Olina, Hawaii, for the ‘Ohana Round — a heartfelt, high-stakes phase that replaces parts of traditional Hollywood Week.

“Ohana” means family in Hawaiian, and this round is all about support, peer respect, and real-world industry insight — before America even gets to vote!

How the ‘Ohana Round Works – The Ultimate Focus Group

• Who’s Involved?
  The Top 30 hopefuls perform live for a powerhouse panel of industry tastemakers — influencers, executives, and creators who collectively reach nearly 149 million followers!
  Meet the tastemakers:
• Loren Gray (singer & actress)
• Shirley Halperin (Rolling Stone co-editor-in-chief)
• Cheryl Porter (world-famous vocal coach)
• Anthony Gargiula (music creator & viral star)
• Kelly Sutton (country music personality)
• Evan Ross Katz (writer & podcaster)
• Kaniyia Brown & Terry McCaskill (social media super-duo)
• Extra Input:
  Contestants also get feedback from their fellow finalists, family, and friends — making it feel like one big supportive family.
• The Stakes:
  By the end of this three-episode arc, only 20 contestants advance to the live shows. Judges Luke Bryan, Lionel Richie, and Carrie Underwood offer commentary, but the tastemakers play a huge role in deciding who moves forward.

Why This Change Feels So Fresh & Exciting

The ‘Ohana Round brings real industry perspective early in the game — something fans have been craving! It’s designed to meet modern audiences where they are, blending emotional support with professional feedback. Plus, it ties perfectly into other Season 24 innovations like expanded social media voting.

Showrunner Megan Wolflick calls it the “ultimate focus group” — and early buzz says it’s delivering heartfelt moments, stunning performances, and some jaw-dropping decisions.

When & Where to Watch the Magic

The ‘Ohana Round is expected to air starting March 9, 2026 (exact dates may shift slightly).
Tune in Mondays at 8 p.m. ET/PT on ABC, with next-day streaming on Hulu.

Final Thoughts: Paradise Meets High Stakes!

The ‘Ohana Round is more than just a location change — it’s a celebration of talent, family, and the future of American Idol. Get ready for tropical drama, emotional highs, and the kind of performances that make you cheer from your couch!

Who are you rooting for to make it through paradise and into the Top 20? Drop your predictions below — and don’t miss the aloha-filled excitement! 🌴🎤✨