Television personality Britani Bateman, known for her role on The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City, has announced that she will be competing as a contestant on the upcoming season of American Idol. The announcement was shared by Bateman herself on her social media accounts, accompanied by a fun video with her niece, further fueling anticipation of her participation.

The news has generated a mixture of excitement and skepticism among fans: some celebrate the opportunity to see a reality TV star explore her musical talent, while others believe her media fame could give her an unfair advantage over other contestants. In the show's preview, Bateman appears auditioning and showcasing some of her vocal style, though without fully revealing her repertoire.

Bateman had already garnered public attention for memorable moments on Real Housewives, including a spontaneous performance of Disney songs during a flight in 2025, which went viral on social media. Her participation in American Idol is seen as another step in her entertainment career, in a format that blends talent with spectacle.

The 2026 season of American Idol is shaping up to be one of the most talked-about, thanks to the diverse lineup of confirmed contestants and the show's renewed focus on discovering talent with unique stories. Producers have promised a mix of emerging voices and familiar faces that are sure to energize the competition.