5 Katy Perry Replacements ‘American Idol’ Judges Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan Have Publicly Addressed

In 2018, ABC decided to reboot American Idol two years after the reality show ended its 15-season run on Fox. Luke Bryan, Katy Perry and Lionel Richie made up the new era’s judging panel. Over seven seasons, viewers witnessed the three superstars strengthen their relationships and develop bonds with the contestants. Now, Katy Perry has ended her Idol run as she gears up for a musical comeback. Executives have been mum so far on the “Dark Horse” singer’s replacement. Although both Bryan and Richie say they are also in the dark, each has publicly name-dropped potential new judges. Here are five Katy Perry replacements that both Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan have publicly addressed.

1. Kelly Clarkson

Lionel Richie has said he’d love to see Kelly Clarkson join him on the judging panel. As both the first-ever American Idol winner and former coach on The Voice, Clarkson does seem like a reasonable choice to replace Katy Perry. However, the “Stronger” singer has already shot down the idea.

[RELATED: “Absolutely Not”: Fellow ‘American Idol’ Winner Joins Kelly Clarkson in Saying No To Replacing Katy Perry]

2. Miley Cyrus

The GRAMMY winner was among the names Luke Bryan listed as “in the talks” to join the American Idol judging panel. And a report published by the Online Betting Guide last Thursday (July 11) lists the former Voice coach as the 6/4 favorite to replace Katy Perry. 

3. Pink

Luke Bryan also floated pop-rock legend Pink’s name as a potential Idol judge. However, the “Don’t Let Me Get Me” singer told Entertainment Tonight that she didn’t like hurting people’s feelings and preferred her day job. Still, some fans are holding onto hope.

4. Taylor Swift

Lionel Richie is shooting for the moon. If the former Commodores singer can’t have Kelly Clarkson beside him, he’ll settle for Taylor Swift. Realistically, though, the “Eras” Tour star is probably booked through at least the next five years.

5. Meghan Trainor

Luke Bryan thinks the “To The Moon” singer would be a “real fun” replacement for Katy Perry. And Meghan Trainor thinks so, too. The GRAMMY winner has openly campaigned to take over Perry’s chair. “That is my dream job, please, I’ve been going everywhere being like, ‘Hi American Idol. Choose me to be a coach please or judge,’” Trainor told Access Daily. I will be the best and give my whole heart and soul. I promise. Please choose me, pick me, love me.”

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