When judge Katy Perry announced her departure from American Idol, many viewers voiced the belief that a former winner should take her place. Kelly Clarkson, the show’s OG winner from 2002, has already taken herself out of the running, as has season 10 winner Scotty McCreery. Now, reports have surfaced that Idol’s best-selling winner is close to inking her contract.
Videos by American Songwriter
Will Carrie Underwood Replace Katy Perry on ‘American Idol?’
TMZ reported Wednesday (July 31) that Carrie Underwood will soon take over Katy Perry’s seat on American Idol.
Citing “sources with direct knowledge,” the outlet wrote that Underwood and her team are in the final stages of signing a contract with the reality show.
The “Before He Cheats” superstar is scheduled for a Friday (Aug. 2) appearance on Good Morning America. Therefore, TMZ speculated that American Idol could make an official announcement that day.
Joining judges Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie would indeed be a full-circle moment for Underwood. The Oklahoma native was just 21 when infamous judge Simon Cowell predicted she would not only win the competition, but also outsell all previous winners. Both Cowell’s predictions came true, as the “Cowboy Casanova” singer remains the highest-selling female country artist of all time.
Of course, Carrie Underwood did recently announce plans to extend her historic concert series, “Reflections: The Las Vegas Residency,” into 2025. This might interfere with her filming schedule for American Idol. However, ABC still has yet to release the season 23 premiere date. And Underwood has only scheduled an additional six shows in Vegas, which could allow her the flexibility to film Idol.
Who Else Is in the Running?
Carrie Underwood is far from the only name floating around as a potential Katy Perry replacement. Judge Luke Bryan has publicly mentioned former The Voice coach Miley Cyrus.
Pop-rock legend Pink and GRAMMY winner Meghan Trainor are also on the table, according to Bryan. While Pink seems uninterested, Trainor has called the gig her “ultimate bucket list dream.”
Featured image by Diggzy/Jesal/Shutterstock
Leave a Reply
Only members can comment. Become a member. Already a member? Log in.