Carrie Underwood is reportedly set to join Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan as a judge on the upcoming Season 23 of American Idol. This marks a significant return for Underwood, who won the fourth season of the iconic singing competition nearly 20 years ago. The news was confirmed by multiple sources, including Page Six, THR, and initially reported by TMZ. An official announcement from Underwood and ABC, the network broadcasting the show, is still awaited. Good Morning America is also expected to make an announcement today, according to USA Today.

Carrie Underwood’s Return to American Idol

Carrie Underwood, who gained fame as the winner of Season 4 of American Idol, is poised to replace Katy Perry on the judges’ panel. Perry announced her departure from the show in February 2024, citing a desire to explore new opportunities, including traveling and creating new music. Perry’s exit follows a successful seven-season run on the show.

Underwood’s potential role on the show represents a full-circle moment in her career. Since her American Idol win in 2005, Underwood has become one of the most successful alumni of the series. She has won eight Grammy Awards and released nine albums. Her return to American Idol is highly anticipated, especially given her deep connection with the show and her past as a mentor on Season 16.

Katy Perry’s Departure and New Music

Katy Perry‘s departure from American Idol has opened up the judging position for Underwood. Perry announced her exit in February 2024 to focus on her personal projects, including her upcoming album, 143, set to release on September 20, 2024. Perry’s latest single, “Woman’s World,” dropped earlier this month and is her first new music since her 2020 album Smile. Her next single, “Lifetimes,” inspired by her young daughter Daisy, is scheduled for release on August 9, 2024.

Speculation and Other Candidates

Before Underwood was reported as the frontrunner for the vacant judge position, several other prominent artists were rumored to be considered. Kelly Clarkson, a notable American Idol winner and former coach on NBC’s The Voice, was among the names mentioned. However, Clarkson stated on July 7, 2024, that she could not accept the role due to her current commitments and location in New York, which would conflict with the filming location in Los Angeles.

Other artists like Pink, Miley Cyrus, and Meghan Trainor were also speculated to be in the running. Despite these speculations, Underwood appears to be the chosen candidate to fill Perry’s seat on the judges’ panel.

Season 22 Recap

The most recent season of American Idol, Season 22, concluded in May 2024. The title was won by Abi Carter, a 22-year-old from Indio, California. With Underwood potentially joining the panel, Season 23 is expected to bring a fresh dynamic to the show, blending Underwood’s experience and success with the established judging panel of Richie and Bryan.

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