Carrie Underwood is ready to sit down American Idol judges' table.
The country singer and 2005 Idol The winner spoke out about replacing judge Katy Perry, who earlier this year surprisingly revealed that season 22 would be her last after seven seasons.
Underwood's return to Idol as formally announced by a judge Good morning America.
During an interview in Las Vegas for The Highway's Aperitif on Music Row special, Underwood commented on her new role and previewed what viewers can expect from her as a judge.
“I feel so lucky to be so obviously rooted in country music, but I’ve been able to be a part of a lot of other genres or music,” Underwood said. “I mean, I have a song with Papa Roach right now. It’s a lot of fun.”
“I like to think that I'm versatile. I hope that when I listen to people who come in and audition, I can get whatever perspective I need in terms of the music that I'm thinking about,” she added.
As for her judging technique, Underwood said she will be “honest and constructive, but still kind” when providing her input.
“And I think that's the point, because people come in and, you know, it's dreams. From that moment on, you're part of someone's story,” she said. “I think it's important to be honest, but it's also really important to be kind, so hopefully I can marry all of those things together and be a good judge.”
Underwood scores first Idol alumnus to join the jury. After being crowned the Idol winner of the competition series' fourth season, the singer has gone on to have a successful career, winning eight Grammy Awards and a total of 25 Academy of Country Music and Country Music Association awards. She has also had eight albums (plus one greatest hits compilation) top the U.S. country charts, four of which have reached No. 1 on the Billboard 200.
He will join returning judges Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan. Ryan Seacrest also returns to host. Season 23 of American Idol It is scheduled for release in early 2025.