The Australian country singer will sit alongside returning judges Marcia Hines and Amy Shark when the Seven singing competition returns next year.
Evans steps into the seat previously held by Kyle Sandilands, whose latest run on Australian Idol followed his original stint on the show from 2005 to 2009.
The move gives the judging panel a fresh country music voice, with Evans bringing years of live performance, songwriting and industry experience to the Idol desk.
Evans first broke through after winning the Road To Tamworth talent search in 2007, before going on to build an international country career. He also appeared during the Australian Idol 2026 grand final, performing his single Letting You Go.
In comments reported after the announcement, Evans said he was excited to help new artists find their voice, adding: "Can't wait to hear what Australia's got!"
The new panel also confirms Hines and Shark will remain central to the show as it moves into its next season on Seven. Hines gives the series a direct link to its original era, while Shark has become one of the reboot's key Australian artist voices.
Seven has not yet announced the exact premiere date or schedule for the new season.
For now, the judge announcement is the clearest sign yet of how Australian Idol plans to refresh the show after Sandilands' departure.
