‘American Idol’ Comes to Delaware for Virtual Auditions

American Idol judges (from left) Lionel Richie, Katy Perry and Luke Bryan./Photo by ABC/Eric McCandless

Auditions for the next season of the popular ABC show are being held with custom-built Zoom technology.


The search for the next superstar doesn’t stop because of a global pandemic.

American Idol, the ABC singing talent competition, finished its 18th season in a virtual setting in May. Now, they’re beginning their search for the next group of contestants through “Idol Across America,” its first-ever live virtual nationwide search.

Using custom-built Zoom technology, remote auditions will take place across all 50 states plus Washington, D.C., for the first time since the show’s inception, making auditions easier than ever. Idol hopefuls will have the chance to audition face-to-face in front of producers as the “Idol Across America” virtual tour stops in their home state.

- Advertisement -

On Aug. 10, the virtual auditions kick off with Delaware, Florida and Ohio. Melissa Elfar, an American Idol producer, says interested performers can sign up online to participate. If they can’t make the First State’s designated day, they can sign up for another date of the “tour.”

Auditions are currently being held through Sept. 9. Some audition dates are marked with specific states while others are labeled as Open Call Auditions.

The one-on-one time with a show producer, along with its virtual setting, is what makes these Idol auditions different from years past.

“You’re going to literally have face-to-face time with a producer,” she says.

Producers will provide feedback and then later follow up with contestants about possible next steps. As for how the show will premiere on ABC and what format it will be in, that is still up in the air. Elfar says production is being taken day-by-day.

- Partner Content -

“Our main focus right now is to find the talent,” she says.

The next season of American Idol will premiere sometime in 2021 on ABC. For more information on the show and on auditions, visit abc.com/shows/american-idol/auditions.

Our Best of Delaware Elimination Ballot is open through February 22!

Holiday flash sale ... subscribe and save 50%

Limited time offer. New subscribers only.