After a long six-month wait, fans finally learned who would replace Katy Perry on the American Idol judging panel.
Katy Perry said goodbye to the show after seven seasons, during which time she became close with her fellow judges, Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie.
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After the news was announced, many artists were rumored to be taking Katy’s place, including Pink!, Miley Cyrus, and Meghan Trainor. But, in the end, there was only one spot to fill. Considering this artist’s history with American Idol, it was the perfect choice.
The one and only Carrie Underwood was announced as a judge for the show’s 23rd season.
She will join the returning judges, Luke and Lionel, promising an exciting lineup for the upcoming season. What’s even more exciting is that Carrie’s return to the show marks 20 years since she won Season 4 of Idol!
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Since her victory in 2005, Carrie Underwood has become one of the best-selling female artists of all time. She has sold over 85 million records worldwide and won eight Grammy Awards. In 2007, Carrie made history as only the second country artist ever to win the Grammy Award for Best New Artist.
It’s safe to say that the “Blown Away” singer is insanely talented. She will surely be a successful judge!
How do Carrie’s fellow judges feel about her new role on Idol?
Given that both Lionel and Luke have been part of the Idol judging panel since its reboot in 2018, it’s only natural that they would have strong reactions to the announcement of their new co-judge.
Luke posted a list of dates to his Instagram page for the upcoming virtual Idol auditions, which are scheduled to begin on August 12. In the caption of the post, he said:
“Hey [Carrie Underwood], [Lionel Richie], and [Ryan Seacrest], this is gonna be one of the most amazin’ seasons EVER! P.S. Carrie, the view is different from the desk, you’re gonna love it!”
TikTok user @itsgabemercer also recently interviewed Luke Bryan and asked him about his advice for Carrie as she joins American Idol. He joked:
“[To] up her therapist. If she has a therapist, she’s probably gonna have to double to deal with me and Lionel…Maybe I should credit her. Do therapists do gift cards where I can call her therapist and gift her a voucher?”
@itsgabemercer #LukeBryan had some advice for #CarrieUnderwood before joining #AmericanIdol 😂
Lionel hasn’t commented directly on Underwood’s hiring as of yet. But he did share Good Morning America’s announcement to his Instagram Stories, and added, “Hello!!!” and tagged Carrie.
In response, she shared his Story with the message, “Hi [Lionel Richie]! Can’t wait!”
This new dynamic among the judges is anticipated to bring fresh energy to the show. The new season is sure to be exciting for both contestants and viewers!
American Idol Season 23 is set to premiere in early 2025. Make sure to tune in to see Carrie Underwood’s debut as a coach!