“American Idol” has a new judge in town, and it’s none other than former winner Carrie Underwood. The exciting announcement was made Thursday morning, confirming Underwood as Katy Perry’s replacement on the judging panel.
“This upcoming season marks 20 years since Carrie won America’s hearts on ‘Idol’ and launched her successful multi-GRAMMY Award-winning career. As a former Idol and dynamic musical force, she brings a remarkably unique perspective to one of the most popular shows on television,” said Craig Erwich, President of Disney Television Group, in a press release. “This is a full-circle moment both for the show and audiences at home who have been tuning in for over two decades. Welcome home, Carrie.”
Underwood, who won the fourth season of the show in 2005, expressed her excitement in a video announcement. “I went from nobody knowing my name to tens of millions of people watching the show. I’m proud of everything I was able to accomplish on the show, and I’m so proud of everything I’ve accomplished since.”
Auditions for the new season will kick off on August 12.
Currently residing in Nashville with her husband, former NHL center Mike Fisher, and their two sons, Isaiah, 9, and Jacob, 5, it remains to be seen if Underwood will relocate her family to Los Angeles, where “American Idol” records its live shows.
In addition to her new role on “American Idol,” Underwood recently announced an extension of her “Reflection” Las Vegas residency at Resorts World, with shows added through spring 2025. She began her residency in December 2021, and due to popular demand, has extended the series multiple times.
How her Las Vegas residency will intersect with her judging duties on “American Idol” is yet to be determined, but fans can look forward to seeing Underwood bring her expertise and star power to the iconic show.
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