Pat Benatar & Neil Giraldo to Mentor 'American Idol' Finalists for Rock Hall Episode

The rock legends will perform and guide the top 11 contestants on the special broadcast.

Apr. 7, 2026 at 9:30pm

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An abstract close-up photograph of shimmering, reflective sequins under dramatic studio lighting, capturing the high-energy, glamorous aesthetic of rock music.The glitz and glam of rock and roll takes center stage as American Idol contestants prepare to honor the genre's Hall of Fame inductees.Los Angeles Today

Iconic rock duo Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo are set to appear as mentors on the upcoming Rock & Roll Hall of Fame-themed episode of American Idol. The pair, who were inducted into the Rock Hall in 2022, will guide the show's top 11 finalists as they perform songs from previous Hall of Fame inductees. The episode will also feature the live announcement of the 2026 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame class.

Why it matters

Benatar and Giraldo's involvement brings added star power and music industry expertise to the Idol broadcast, which aims to celebrate the legacy of rock and roll. Their mentorship will provide valuable guidance to the aspiring Idol contestants as they tackle the catalogs of legendary artists.

The details

During the April 13 episode, Benatar and Giraldo will perform on the show and work closely with the top 11 finalists, helping them prepare interpretations of classic rock songs by past Rock Hall inductees. The broadcast will also unveil the 2026 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame class, with this year's nominees including Phil Collins, Billy Idol, The Black Crowes, Oasis, Wu-Tang Clan, and more.

  • The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame-themed American Idol episode will air live on April 13, 2026.
  • Benatar and Giraldo were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2022.

The players

Pat Benatar

A legendary rock singer-songwriter who, along with her husband Neil Giraldo, was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2022.

Neil Giraldo

A renowned guitarist, songwriter, and producer who has collaborated extensively with his wife, Pat Benatar, and was also inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2022.

American Idol

A long-running singing competition television series that features aspiring musicians competing for a recording contract.

Rock & Roll Hall of Fame

A museum and hall of fame located in Cleveland, Ohio, that honors influential musicians, singers, and other figures who have made outstanding contributions to rock and roll.

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What they’re saying

“We're thrilled to be part of this year's Rock & Roll Hall of Fame-themed American Idol episode. As inductees, we're excited to share our experience and expertise with the next generation of musical talent.”

— Pat Benatar

“The Rock Hall has always been a symbol of excellence in rock music, and we're honored to help celebrate that legacy on American Idol. These finalists are incredibly talented, and we can't wait to see what they do with these iconic songs.”

— Neil Giraldo

What’s next

The 2026 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame class will be announced live during the American Idol episode on April 13.

The takeaway

Benatar and Giraldo's involvement in the American Idol Rock Hall episode underscores the enduring influence and significance of rock music, as well as the importance of mentorship in nurturing the next generation of musical talent.