Carrie Underwood Joins American Idol 23, Replacing Katy Perry

Carrie Underwood fans got amazing news today, ABC confirmed the rumors of Underwood’s American Idol return.  But, this time Carrie won’t be competing against other singers, she’ll be in the coveted judge’s chair.  

Underwood is set to replace controversial judge Katy Perry, and will be joining Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan in Season 23.  Of course, American Idol host Ryan Seacrest will be back on stage as well.  

American Idol showrunner Megan Wolflick shared the exciting casting news in a heartfelt statement, which included several references to Carrie’s days in the singing competition.  

Carrie Underwood – Returns To The Idol Stage

The head honcho wrote, “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.”

The American Idol showrunner is referring to Carrie Underwood’s country music debut in season 4 when she was crowned the winner.  In a lot of ways, Carrie’s success after Idol mirrors the career of season 1 winner Kelly Clarkson.  

Earlier this year Katy Perry announced that season 22 would be her last season and she was retiring from her tenure as American Idol judge. 

Katy Perry was a pop-singer, but Underwood has a history in pop and country music, plus she added gospel music to her resume last year.  It will be interesting to see if Carrie leans more to her pop roots so that she doesn’t step on Luke Bryan’s toes.  

American Idol – Season 23 Premiere Date

American Idol Season 22 wrapped up in May 2024.  If American Idol follows the same filming schedule it has for the last five years, then Carrie Underwood should make her debut as Katy Perry’s replacement in February 2025.  

Do you think Carrie Underwood will make a good Idol judge?  Were you watching Season 4 when she was crowned the winner?  Let us know in the comments below and keep checking Soap Opera Spy for more American Idol news and updates.