‘American Idol’ to Air First-Ever Faith-Filled Special on Easter Sunday

For the first time in its 23-season history, American Idol is set to celebrate Easter with a powerful, faith-centered broadcast. The show will air a special “Songs of Faith” episode on Easter Sunday, April 20, 2025 — a three-hour primetime event spotlighting worship and gospel music.

All 20 remaining contestants will take the stage to perform songs rooted in faith, hope, and inspiration. The night won’t just feature the rising stars of Idol—the lineup also includes several heavy-hitters from the world of Christian and gospel music.

Grammy-winning gospel legend CeCe Winans, worship leader Brandon Lake, genre-blending artist Jelly Roll, powerhouse vocalist Roman Collins, and rising quartet The Brown Four are all slated to perform. Lake and Jelly Roll will also team up for a live performance of their recent collaboration, “Hard Fought Hallelujah,” which made waves earlier this year with its raw, redemptive message.

And the worship won’t stop with the guests—the judges are getting in on the action, too. Carrie Underwood, Lionel Richie, and Luke Bryan will each perform faith-based songs, making the night feel more like Sunday service than a singing competition.

The Easter special will be pre-recorded on April 16 at Red Studios in Los Angeles. According to On Camera Audiences, taping begins at 1:30 p.m. and could last up to six hours. Audience members with tickets are promised “light snacks and BIG entertainment.”

This groundbreaking episode promises to be a heartfelt celebration of faith, talent, and musical expression—American Idol like you’ve never seen it before.