Katy Perry officially said goodbye to American Idol on the Season 22 finale on May 19.
After seven years as a judge on the popular show, Katy Perry announced her departure from American Idol during an appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live! in February.
“I think this probably will be my last show, my last season for Idol. I mean, I love Idol so much. 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…”
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Since then, fans have been speculating about who will replace Perry at the judges’ table alongside Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie.
Throughout the latest season of American Idol, the judges, including Katy Perry, have expressed their thoughts on potential replacements.
Lionel Richie emphasized the need for the next judge to bring their character and be honest and constructive with their words, while Katy Perry stressed the importance of leading with the heart, being true to oneself, and not being afraid to speak their mind. Luke Bryan also mentioned his interest in seeing who would be chosen as Perry’s replacement, saying it wasn’t a huge shock that she was leaving.
Who Will Replace Katy Perry On American Idol?
Kelly Clarkson, who won the first season of Idol in 2002, has been mentioned among the speculated contenders for the role. But, unfortunately for Clarkson fans, it looks like that won’t be happening.
Clarkson dismissed the possibility due to her family commitments and her relocation to New York City for personal reasons.
Another “top contender” that was thrown around during finale week was Jon Bon Jovi.
Both judge Luke Bryan and host Ryan Seacrest have endorsed yet another suitable candidate — Meghan Trainor.
After watching Trainor guest mentor on Idol earlier this year, Seacrest told Entertainment Tonight, “She was very good. Meghan is a super talent, too, and she’s got a great sense of humor. She’s fun, and she’s spontaneous.”
Bryan also shared that Trainor could be a potential replacement for Perry.
“I think Meghan’s always been real fun. You know, that’s kinda been her brand, to have fun. [She’s] real witty, so certainly.”
The pop star revealed during a recent appearance on Watch What Happens Live With Andy Cohen that being a judge on American Idol would be her “dream job.”
“I have begged for this job. I’ve done every interview in the world and said that that is my dream job.”
Trainor also said that she has actively pursued the position by reaching out to industry insiders.
“I have emailed three awesome people who work in that world who don’t really have the full say, but I begged.”
With an impressive career already under her belt, Meghan Trainor seems to have the credentials and experience to thrive as an American Idol judge.