“American Idol” season 4 winner Carrie Underwood will return to the show as a judge. It was a career-defining moment for nearly two decades for Underwood, who will join judges Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan on the judging panel.
Underwood’s new gig will reportedly pay her $12 million compared to her $25 million contract with Katy Perry. After seven seasons, Perry left the show.
Richie is said to have earned $10 million per season while Forbes estimates Bryan’s salary at $12 million.
Even host Seacrest makes $12 million per season.
According to Life & Style, the salary difference between Underwood and Perry comes from “time and priority”.
A new ABC promotional clip shows Underwood going from a fresh-faced hopeful to an award-winning country music icon and now a role model for budding athletes everywhere.
Fans went crazy over the video, with some in tears and others taking to social media to praise Underwood and support her new role.
Carrie Underwood becoming an American Idol judge 20 years after she won (and became the most successful contestant ever) is truly special.
From small town girl to music superstar! ❤️ pic.twitter.com/YHvqyZzaN8
– Nick (@nicksawaboy) December 18, 2024
My last concert was Carrie Underwood. I’m not a real country music fan but I’ve been a fan of hers since she won American Idol many years ago. She gave a really great performance! It was a surprise when she did Welcome to the Jungle as an encore. What a surprise! pic.twitter.com/q5ifRDCbux
– Ed A (@musicmaned) December 11, 2024
Ryan Seacrest, who won Underwood in 2005, took to social media to share throwback photos from that time.
He wrote, “It was a complete moment from announcing you as the winner @americanidol 20 years ago to now welcoming you to the judges’ table.”
In an interview earlier this year, Underwood talked about his reviewing style, speaking honestly but kindly.
From then on, she explains: “It’s important to be a part of someone’s story from that point on.”
It’s time for the “American Idol” franchise to get some much-needed heat with Underwood’s return to the stage.
With her extensive experience across several musical genres as well as her strong attachment to the show’s legacy, she is expected to bring new life and insight to her position as a judge on the show. competition.
Underwood is now pushing the show forward, giving Idol the next generation of star power, and fans are excited about what the future holds.
The new season will launch in the first half of 2025.
Carrie Underwood card