Carrie Underwood has been announced as the new judge for American Idol, replacing Katy Perry alongside returning judges Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie. American Idol bosses had been trying to enlist the country singer for years, but various factors such as money, timing, and a rival bid from The Voice had previously prevented it from happening. However, the timing is now right for Carrie to return to the show that launched her career in 2005, and she is excited to give back and further cement her legacy with the show.
Carrie Underwood is the first American Idol alum to become a judge on the show, and she is set to make her debut when American Idol returns in spring 2025. She expressed her pride for everything she has accomplished on the show and since then in an emotional video announcing her new role. With a successful career that includes eight Grammy Awards and 25 wins at the CMT Music Awards, Carrie brings a unique perspective to the popular television show, according to Craig Erwich, president of Disney Television Group.
Carrie Underwood’s return to American Idol comes after Katy Perry left the show in order to focus on her music career. The show was originally a hit on Fox before being cancelled in 2016 but was later revived by ABC and has since aired for seven seasons. Alongside Carrie, Luke and Lionel will be returning as judges, with longtime host Ryan Seacrest also coming back for the new season. Auditions for the upcoming season will begin in August with the Idol Across America nationwide search, ending in September. The new season is expected to premiere in the spring and will be available to watch on ABC and Hulu.
Carrie Underwood’s loyalty to American Idol and her desire to give back to the show that started her career have been cited as reasons for her decision to join the judging panel. Despite being approached to coach on The Voice in the past, Carrie has always felt the need to be loyal to American Idol. Now that the timing is finally right and all the pieces have fallen into place, she is eager to help make the show a success once again and to mentor the next generation of talented singers.
As a highly acclaimed artist with multiple Grammy Awards and a history of topping the charts, Carrie Underwood’s addition to the American Idol judging panel brings a wealth of experience and a unique perspective to the show. Her announcement has been met with excitement and anticipation from fans and industry insiders alike, who are eager to see what she will bring to the table. With auditions for the new season just around the corner, the stage is set for another successful season of discovering and nurturing new talent on American Idol.
