Season 23 of “American Idol” is beginning with a homecoming of sorts.

Katy Perry, who has served as a judge since the series was rebooted in Season 16, stepped down after Season 22 to release music and tour. Beginning this season, she’ll be replaced by “American Idol” Season 4 winner and country music superstar Carrie Underwood.

It’s not the first time the former winner has returned to “Idol,” having mentored contestants in Seasons 16 and 20, but it’s her first time on the other side of the judges table.

One post-Oscars episode of the season has already aired, but the official Season 23 premiere is tonight. Here’s how you can watch live.

‘American Idol’ Season 23 premiere date and time: When is ‘American Idol’ on?

“American Idol” Season 23 premieres tonight, March 9, at 8:00 p.m. ET. New episodes of “American Idol” will air weekly on Sundays.

How to watch ‘American Idol’ for free:

If you recently cut the cord, the best way to stream “American Idol” for free is to use a live TV streaming service with a free trial.

We recommend DIRECTV Stream, which offers a five-day free trial for new subscribers. When the trial is over, you’ll pay $86.99/month and gain access to over 90 live channels, including ABC.

fuboTV also offers a free trial for new users. It runs for seven days, and then you’ll be able to save $25 on your first month ($59.99, $84.99/month after).

‘American Idol’ Season 23 judges:

This season, Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie will return as judges. Carrie Underwood will make her “American Idol” judging debut.

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This article was written by Angela Tricarico, Commerce Writer/Reporter for Post Wanted Shopping and New York Post’s streaming property, Decider. Angela keeps readers up to date with cord-cutter-friendly deals, and information on how to watch your favorite sports teams, TV shows, and movies on each streaming service. Not only does Angela test and compare the streaming services she writes about to ensure readers are getting the best prices, but she’s also a superfan specializing in the intersection of shopping, tech, sports, and pop culture. Prior to joining Decider and New York Post in 2023, she wrote about streaming and consumer tech at Insider Reviews