Carrie Underwood, who rose to fame as the 2005 winner of “American Idol,” is set to make a historic return to the show — this time as a judge.
The country music icon will replace Katy Perry, who announced earlier this year that she would be leaving the show after seven seasons on the reality singing show.
Underwood’s appointment as a judge was officially announced on “Good Morning America” earlier this month. She will be the show’s first alumna to join the judging panel.
During a recent interview in Las Vegas for The Highway’s Music Row Happy Hour special, Underwood shared her excitement about being the show’s new judge following Perry’s departure.
“I feel so lucky to be so deeply rooted in country music, but I’ve been able to do so many different genres,” Underwood told The Hollywood Reporter. “I mean, I have a song with Papa Roach right now. It’s been fun.”
Underwood, known for her versatility as an artist, emphasized that her diverse musical background will influence her approach to judging.
“I like to think of myself as versatile. Hopefully when I listen to people auditioning, I can get whatever perspective I need on the kind of music I’m thinking about,” she explains.
As for her judging style, Underwood plans to strike a balance between honesty and kindness. “I think honesty is important, but it’s also important to be kind, so hopefully I can combine all of those things and be a good judge,” she said.
This approach fits with her understanding of the importance of the moment for contestants stepping into the spotlight for the first time.
Underwood, who was recently rumored to be considering adoption after multiple miscarriages, will join judges Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan, along with longtime host Ryan Seacrest.
Since winning Season 4 of “American Idol,” Underwood has won eight Grammy Awards and 25 Academy of Country Music and Country Music Association awards. She has also produced eight chart-topping albums to date.
The 23rd season of “American Idol” is scheduled to premiere in early 2025.
Tags Carrie Underwood, Katy Perry, American Idol