Carrie Underwood returns to ‘American Idol’ as a judge

A new chapter for ‘American Idol’

Carrie Underwood is set to make a triumphant return to the show that launched her career. ABC is expected to announce that Underwood will join the judging panel for the next season of ‘American Idol’, replacing Katy Perry, who announced her departure earlier this year. Underwood, a familiar face to the show’s fans, has previously appeared as a mentor and performed during the season finale in 2022.

A familiar face on ABC

Underwood is no stranger to ABC viewers. She hosted the CMA Awards on the network from 2008 to 2019, showcasing her versatility and charm. Her journey began in 2005 when she won Season 4 of ‘American Idol’ on Fox. Now, she will join Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan as the newest judge for the show’s 23rd season.

Katy Perry’s departure

Katy Perry announced her decision to step down as a judge last spring. She had been a part of the show for seven seasons since it moved to ABC in 2018. Perry expressed her love for ‘American Idol’ and its connection to the heart of America during an episode of ‘Jimmy Kimmel Live.’ She mentioned her desire to explore new opportunities and experiences, leaving the door open for a possible return in the future.

The legacy of ‘American Idol’

With Underwood joining the panel, ‘American Idol’ continues to evolve while maintaining its legacy. The trio of Bryan, Richie, and Underwood will match the seven-season stint of the original judges, Simon Cowell, Paula Abdul, and Randy Jackson. The show, now entering its eighth season on ABC, remains a beloved platform for discovering new talent.

The show’s enduring appeal

‘American Idol’ has been renewed for another season, with Ryan Seacrest continuing as the host. The show is produced by Fremantle and Sony Pictures TV’s 19 Entertainment, with Megan Michaels Wolflick serving as the showrunner and executive producer alongside Fremantle’s Jennifer Mullin, and Eli Holzman and Aaron Saidman for 19 Entertainment.

Personal reflections

As a long-time fan of ‘American Idol,’ I am thrilled to see Carrie Underwood return to the show. Her journey from a contestant to a judge is a testament to the show’s impact on aspiring artists. Underwood’s presence will undoubtedly bring a fresh perspective and a wealth of experience to the judging panel. Her ability to connect with contestants and viewers alike makes her an excellent addition to the show.

For those who have followed ‘American Idol’ over the years, this news is a reminder of the show’s enduring appeal. It continues to be a platform where dreams are realized, and new stars are born. With Underwood, Richie, and Bryan at the helm, the upcoming season promises to be an exciting and memorable one.

Explore more

For more information and to watch the trailer for the upcoming season of ‘American Idol,’ visit American Idol.

This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of Carrie Underwood’s return to ‘American Idol’ while offering personal insights and reflections. The inclusion of direct links to trailers and additional resources ensures that readers have immediate access to more information, enhancing their overall experience.