American Idol Welcomes Carrie Underwood as New Judge
A New Chapter for Carrie Underwood
Nearly twenty years after American Idol transformed Carrie Underwood’s career, she’s returning to the long-standing singing competition series as a judge. Idol announced on August 1st that the country superstar will take over for Katy Perry in the 23rd overall season, which kicks off in spring 2025 on ABC and Hulu.
A Perfect Fit for the Show
“Carrie Underwood is the first American Idol alum ever to join the judging panel. Her global superstar status as the most successful Idol winner to date makes her a perfect fit for the show,” Megan Wolflick, Idol showrunner and executive producer, shared in a statement to Variety. “She embodies the true spirit of Idol as she herself is the definition of the Cinderella story. Our future hopefuls will have the chance to receive advice from someone who has walked in their exact footsteps every step of the way. Carrie has always been a strong supporter of Idol, and I’m thrilled for her to be reunited with our Idol Family.”
Awards and Accolades
Since winning American Idol’s fourth season in 2005, Underwood has notched eight Grammys, nine studio albums, and 16 No. 1 hits on Billboard’s Country Airplay Chart. She’s also appeared on Idol a handful of times since her win, serving as a mentor to season 20’s top five finalists.
A New Era for the Show
When she replaces Perry, who announced her exit from the series after an eight-season tenure earlier this year, Underwood will join current judges Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan. Although the series won’t air until next spring, auditions for Idol’s season 23 “Idol Across America” search begin on August 12th.
Underwood’s Other Projects
On top of her new role with Idol, Underwood is also extending her standing Las Vegas residency into 2025. The historic residency began in 2021, and received its first extension by popular demand in 2022. Underwood also has a song with Papa Roach on the way, a new version of the band’s song “Leave a Light On (Talk Away The Dark).”
Conclusion
Carrie Underwood’s return to American Idol as a judge marks a new chapter in the show’s history. With her impressive track record as a performer and her experience as a mentor, she is sure to bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the judging panel. We can’t wait to see what the new season has in store for us.
**FAQs**
Q: When does American Idol season 23 premiere?
A: The series will kick off in spring 2025 on ABC and Hulu.
Q: Who is replacing Katy Perry on the judging panel?
A: Carrie Underwood is taking over for Perry as a judge on the show.
Q: Who will be joining Underwood on the judging panel?
A: She will join current judges Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan.
Q: When do auditions for Idol’s season 23 “Idol Across America” search begin?
A: Auditions begin on August 12th.
Q: What is Carrie Underwood’s Las Vegas residency extending into?
A: The residency will extend into 2025.
Q: What new project is Underwood working on?
A: She is releasing a new song with Papa Roach, a version of the band’s song “Leave a Light On (Talk Away The Dark)”.
