"American Idol" might just be feeling 22, as the 22nd season of the show is set to premiere on ABC on Feb.18.

Over the 22 seasons, there have been two Iowa natives who have been on the show: Maddie Walker from season 14 and Maddie Poppe from season 16.

Here is everything you need to know about the upcoming season of American Idol and the Iowa contestants who were once on the show.

What has Maddie Walker done since 'American Idol'?

Maddie Walker was only 17 and a student at Ankeny Centennial High School when she made it to the top 11 during season 14. Walker auditioned with the song "To Make You Feel My Love" by Bob Dylan, and her audition received positive feedback from the judges, earning her a golden ticket to Hollywood.

During the season run, she became known for her distinctive country music style and powerful vocal performances. Being one of the youngest contestants on the show, she often impressed the judges and audience with her emotional connection to songs.

Since appearing on the show in 2015, Walker has been making music but is now based in Nashville, TN. Walker recently announced on Instagram that she is pregnant with her first child.

What has Maddie Poppe, winner of 'American Idol' season 16 been up to?

Maddie Poppe is the winner of the reality competition show's 16th season. Hailing from Clarksville, Poppe was always surrounded by music growing up with her father being a guitarist, and she would sometimes play with him in his band before heading off to audition for "American Idol."

Poppe auditioned with "The Rainbow Connection," by Kermit the Frog, capturing the hearts of the judges.

"You have that storytelling voice," judge Lionel Richie told Poppe. "Storytelling is the best thing in the world." Poppe received three yeses from the judges, made it to Hollywood and advanced to the finals.

Poppe became the season 16 winner and won with her performance of her original song, "Going Going Gone."

She became known for her distinctive voice and style during the show and is still making music. Poppe is touring the U.S. this spring with Joshua Radin and Gabe Burdulis.

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When will Season 22 of 'American Idol' premiere?

"American Idol" will premiere on ABC on Sunday, Feb. 18, 2024, marking its 22nd overall season.

"American Idol" episode schedule

"American Idol" will now air at 7 p.m. central on Sunday nights on ABC. (WOI, channel 5 in Des Moines)

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Katy Perry to leave American Idol judges after season 22

After 22 seasons, "American Idol" has remained a staple in pop culture, with the original judges, Simon Cowell, Paula Abdul, and Randy Jackson, still being recognized for their part in the show even years after leaving.

The current judges of "American Idol" are Katy Perry, Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan.

Perry announced on "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" that this would be her final season on the show, stating, "I think this probably will be my last show, my last season for 'Idol,'" she told Kimmel. "I mean, I love 'Idol' so much. I know. It's connected me with the heart of America. But I feel like I need to go out and feel that pulse to my own beat. You know what I'm saying, Jimmy?"

Perry continued to say, "It's going to be a very, very exciting year, Jimmy, for all pop star girlies. Let's just say I'm creating space for my new wingspan."

Jessica Rish is an entertainment, dining and business reporter for the Iowa City Press-Citizen. She can be reached at [email protected] or on X, formerly known as Twitter, @rishjessica_

This article originally appeared on Iowa City Press-Citizen: American Idol has hosted 2 Iowans. What's next for them and season 22?