Uploaded July 2026 | Updated September 2026, 2 weeks ago

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Hollywood Week brought unforgettable performances and unforgettable stories.

From unique hometown journeys to emotional personal experiences, these contestants shared the backstories that helped shape their American Idol journey during Hollywood Week 2026.

Watch some of the season’s most memorable contestant stories, biggest moments, and standout personalities as the competition continues on American Idol.

Timestamps
0:00 Brooks
0:52 Braden Rumfelt
2:10 Jesse Findling
2:41 Hannah Harper
4:20 Rae
5:06 Chris Tungseth
6:37 Bryant Thomas
7:10 Chloe Lauren
8:35 Julian Kalel

See more of American Idol 2026 on our official site: americanidol.com

Facebook: facebook.com/AmericanIdol
Twitter: twitter.com/americanidol
Instagram: instagram.com/americanidol
TikTok: tiktok.com/americanidol

AMERICAN IDOL, the iconic series that revolutionized the television landscape by pioneering the music competition genre, premieres Jan 26 on ABC and stream on Hulu.

American Idol 2026 #AmericanIdol

Helping to determine who America will ultimately vote for to become the next singing sensation are music industry forces and superstar judges Luke Bryan, Carrie Underwood and Lionel Richie. Emmy® Award-winning host and producer Ryan Seacrest continues as host of the beloved series.