“American Idol” has announced that Carrie Underwood will replace Katy Perry as a judge on the show. Underwood will serve alongside judges Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie.

After seven years as a judge, Katy Perry left “American Idol” in 2024. While coaching many artists over the years, Perry encouraged 21-year-old contestant Israel McFarland to use music to rebel against his parents and his Christian upbringing. Perry related to the contestant because she had a conservative childhood before pursuing a secular music career.

“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 television shows,” said Craig Erwich, president, Disney Television Group. “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.”

“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. 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,” said Megan Wolflick, showrunner and executive producer of “American Idol.”

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