Show summary Hide summary
American Idol continues its historic Hawaii battles tonight as the remaining Top 20 performers take the stage at Disney’s Aulani Resort. The second group of 10 finalists will sing for your support, and voting is already live. Here’s everything you need to know to cast your votes and keep your favorites in the competition.
🔥 Quick Facts
- Air Time: Monday, March 23, 2026 at 8 p.m. ET on ABC
- Voting Window: Opens at 8 p.m. ET, closes at 6 a.m. ET Tuesday morning
- Performers: 10 contestants from the second group of the Top 20
- Vote Limit: 10 votes per method, up to 50 total votes per episode
How to Vote for American Idol 2026 Tonight
American Idol 2026 introduced a brand new voting system this season. Unlike previous years, fans can now vote via social media by commenting on official posts. You have three primary voting methods available: text message, online portal, and social media comments. Each method allows up to 10 votes per finalist.
To vote by text, send the number assigned to your favorite contestant to 21523. For online voting, head to americanidol.com/vote or download the official app. Social voting opens on the official American Idol accounts across Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok when the broadcast airs. You can redistribute your votes until the window closes at 6 a.m. ET Tuesday morning.
American Idol Top 20 battles tonight in Hawaii, here’s how to vote
How did Sinatra’s son die in Paradise? Season 2 twist revealed
Meet the Standout Performers
Tonight’s second group features some of the most impressive vocal talent this season. Braden Rumfelt, a 22-year-old from western North Carolina, has already stunned judges with his powerful rendition of “Love on the Brain” during the first night. His soulful voice and emotional delivery have left both the technical panel and viewers speechless.
The Top 20 battle brings together diverse musical styles and personal stories. Each contestant is fighting to move beyond the voting rounds and secure their spot in the next phase. The competition has been fierce since the initial Ohana Round in Hawaii, where Kyndal Inskeep, Brooks Rosser, and Jordan Brooks earned their Platinum Tickets straight to the battles.
Understanding the Top 20 Format
The Top 20 performances are happening over two nights. Part 1 aired on March 16, while tonight’s Part 2 on March 23 completes the battles. America’s votes will determine which 10 finalists advance from each group, eventually leading to the Top 10 round.
| Detail | Information |
| Episode | Episode 9, Top 20 Part 2 |
| Location | Disney Aulani Resort, Kapolei, Hawaii |
| Network | ABC |
| Duration | 2-hour event |
“Tonight, the Top 20’s mind-blowing performances continue, and who moves on is in your hands.”
— American Idol, Official Statement
What Made the Hawaii Round So Special
Performing at Disney Aulani has elevated the Top 20 competition. The stunning resort backdrop, tropical setting, and industry mentors including Keke Palmer and Brad Paisley have created a unique energy. This season’s historic voting changes put unprecedented power directly in viewers’ hands through social media platforms.
The voting threshold is competitive. With viewers able to cast up to 50 votes per person across all three methods, engaged fan bases will decide outcomes. The combination of technical judges’ scores and America’s votes will shape the final Top 10 lineup, making your participation critical to your favorites’ survival.
Will You Vote for Your Favorites Tonight?
Voting begins at 8 p.m. ET when the broadcast starts and ends at 6 a.m. ET Tuesday morning. You have multiple convenient options to support your favorites before the deadline. Remember that you can change your votes online and through the app up until the window closes, so you can adjust your strategy as performances unfold.
Don’t miss American Idol’s continuation of an unforgettable Hawaii week. Tune in tonight at 8 p.m. ET on ABC and cast your votes for the second group of Top 20 contenders. The future of American Idol Season 24 depends on your votes tonight.
Sources
- Good Housekeeping – How to vote for American Idol Season 24 in 2026
- Deseret News – American Idol 2026 Top 20 contestants and voting guide
- DraftKings Network – American Idol Episode 9 airtime and details
