Seven has given viewers their first proper look at Australian Idol 2026, dropping a fresh teaser during the MKR Grand Final and signalling the next round of star-making is officially underway.

Marcia Hines, Amy Shark and Kyle Sandilands return to the Idol judges’ desk for 2026 (image – Seven)

Backed by the 2003 Cat Empire track Hello Hello, the teaser races through a colourful spread of aspiring singers across pop, rock, rap and country.

Marcia Hines, Amy Shark and Kyle Sandilands return once again, ready to put a new wave of hopefuls through their paces as Seven promises the bar has been raised and the competition tougher than ever.

Idol’s vibrant 2026 first-look promo teases a bold new season packed with fresh talent (image – Seven)

It’s been a busy few months behind the scenes, with casting for season 11 opening earlier this year shortly after the finale. It was an early sign the show would be back in 2026, followed by auditions filmed in September.

Top 30 filming wrapped in October, with those in attendance already treated to a sneak peek at last month’s live showcase. Seven then formally locked in Idol’s return during its 2026 Upfronts event last month.

This new batch of contestants will be looking to follow the path carved out by 2025 winner Marshall Hamburger, who took the title in April, with Gisella and Iilysh rounding out the Top 3.

And if these early glimpses are anything to go by, the search for Australia’s next Idol is about to get lively, with a burst of colour setting the tone for a big season ahead.

The new season of Australian Idol returns to Seven and 7plus in 2026.