Brad Paisley to Serve as Guest Mentor on American Idol

The country music star will offer guidance to this season's top 20 contestants.

Jan. 29, 2026 at 2:55am

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Three-time Grammy winner Brad Paisley will appear on American Idol this season as a guest mentor, alongside Keke Palmer, offering his guidance and musical expertise to this season's top 20 hopefuls. Paisley appeared in Monday night's season premiere, pranking his longtime friend and frequent comedic partner, Carrie Underwood, during auditions in Nashville at his alma mater, Belmont University.

Why it matters

Paisley's appearance as a guest mentor on American Idol is significant as he is a highly respected and accomplished country music artist who can provide valuable insights and feedback to the contestants. His involvement helps to further elevate the show's credibility and appeal to country music fans.

The details

Paisley will be featured in Episode 908, Top 20 at Disney's Aulani Resort in Hawaii - Part 1, airing Monday, March 16, and Episode 909, Top 20 at Disney's Aulani Resort in Hawaii - Part 2, airing Monday, March 23. American Idol airs Mondays from 8 - 10 p.m. ET/PT on ABC and streams next day on Hulu.

  • Brad Paisley appeared in the American Idol season premiere on Monday, January 27, 2026.
  • Paisley will be featured in Episode 908 on Monday, March 16, 2026.
  • Paisley will be featured in Episode 909 on Monday, March 23, 2026.

The players

Brad Paisley

A three-time Grammy-winning country music star who will serve as a guest mentor on this season of American Idol.

Carrie Underwood

Paisley's longtime friend and frequent comedic partner, who he pranked during the American Idol season premiere.

Keke Palmer

The other guest mentor who will appear alongside Paisley to offer guidance to this season's top 20 American Idol contestants.

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What’s next

Paisley's appearances as a guest mentor on American Idol will air on March 16 and March 23, 2026, where he will provide guidance and feedback to the show's top 20 contestants.

The takeaway

Brad Paisley's involvement as a guest mentor on American Idol this season is a significant coup for the show, as his expertise and star power can help elevate the contestants and further engage country music fans who tune in to the popular singing competition.