Luke Bryan Returns As ‘American Idol’ Judge After Missing First Live Show Due To Positive Covid Test Deadline 1 hr ago American Idol‘s Luke Bryan released a video message this evening confirming his return to the judges’ table for tonight’s show. He missed the first live show of the season last week after contracting COVID-19. The country singer, who joined the ABC series at the top of its 16th season, revealed the news on Twitter. He wrote, “I’m back and I’ll see y’all shortly for American Idol! We’re live at 8/7c and voting starts at the top of the show. Tune in! #americanidol.”