(Disney/Eric McCandless) BREANNA NIX
American Idol 2025 is just around the corner. After a special 30 minute episode airs after the Oscars on Sunday March 2, the judges auditions kick off the following week on March 9 at 8 pm on ABC/Hulu.
In these special promos, the judges Lionel Richie, Luke Bryan, new panelist and season 4 winner Carrie Underwood and host Ryan Seacrest chose a favorite audition to feature in spotlight promos.
Lionel Richie – Gabby Samone
Lionel picked Gabby Samone from Baltimore, Maryland whom he described as a “spectacular” singer. American Idol will feature her audition on the March 9 premiere.
“What I love most about American Idol is when they discover who they are,” Lionel remarked about why he continues to return to the judges chair season after season.
“During COVID, me and my parents became homeless,” Gabby recalled. “That time was very tough. I started posting a lot. One of my videos caught Jennifer Hudson’s (Season 3 alum) eye and she invited me onto her show.”
Gabby continued, “My family is my biggest support system. I wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for these people right here.”
