Carrie Underwood to Replace Katy Perry as New 'American Idol' Judge

From champion to judge, Underwood returns with a seat on the big table

Carrie Underwood is set to return to “American Idol,” this time in a new role as a judge. The country music star and Season 4 winner will take over from Katy Perry, who is stepping down from the judging panel.

The official announcement from ABC for Season 23 of the singing competition series is expected to be made on Thursday.

Underwood, who first gained fame as the champion of “American Idol” in 2005, will be joining the panel as the show prepares for its next season. Representatives for “American Idol” and Underwood’s publicist have not yet commented on the casting change.

Perry, who joined “American Idol” in 2018, revealed her departure earlier this year during an appearance on “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” She expressed a desire to explore new creative avenues, stating, “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.” She is also gearing up for the release of her new album, “143,” set to debut in September.

During her tenure on the show, Perry, along with fellow judges Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie, became a familiar trio on the panel. The group made their debut when “American Idol” moved from Fox to ABC for its 16th season.

Despite the pay disparity, with Perry reportedly earning $25 million compared to Bryan and Richie’s salaries, the judges enjoyed a successful run together.

In February, Perry announced her decision to leave “American Idol” and focus on her music career. Her departure was met with support from her colleagues, with Bryan defending her against criticism and Richie praising her as a “humorous” and “knowledgeable” judge.

Carrie Underwood’s return to the show marks a full-circle moment for the singer, who first rose to fame as a contestant.