The long-running ABC singing competition will move production from Los Angeles to the Atlanta area for its upcoming 25th season, marking a major change for the franchise after more than two decades of production in Southern California. Producer Fremantle confirmed the relocation on September 15, with Deadline first reporting the news.
The move will take place as American Idol prepares for its milestone 25th season, which is scheduled to premiere in 2027. The specific Atlanta-area studio has not yet been publicly finalized, with reports indicating that Fremantle was in talks with a studio complex when the relocation was announced.
The Atlanta move also brings the series closer to the roots of several members of its current on-air team. Host Ryan Seacrest is from Dunwoody, Georgia, while judge Luke Bryan grew up in Leesburg, Georgia. Lionel Richie is from Alabama, and Carrie Underwood is from Oklahoma.
Seacrest recently addressed the relocation, calling it a significant change after spending 25 years with the franchise. He joked that his mother is especially excited about the show coming to his hometown area.
Georgia has become a major destination for television production, with its tax incentives and growing production infrastructure helping attract unscripted programming. American Idol joins other major productions that have shifted portions of their operations to the Atlanta area.
The move also represents a notable change for a series historically associated with the phrase “You’re going to Hollywood!”, though contestants will still be competing for their chance to become the next American Idol.
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