Carrie Underwood Reveals Reason for Returning to ‘American Idol’ in First Public Statement

It has been nearly 20 years since Carrie Underwood appeared on season four of American Idol. Although dominating the competition and eventually winning, the country star used the show as a launching pad. Since ending her time on the show, the singer released numerous hit albums and sold over 85 million records worldwide. She also holds eight Grammy Awards. Considered one of the 100 most influential people in the world by Time, Underwood recently discussed her decision to return to American Idol and how it felt like home. 

When Katy Perry announced her exit from American Idol, the producers rushed to find her replacement. But besides replacing Perry, the producers needed a singer who could mesh with fellow judges Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan. And with Underwood the new judge, she opened up about the milestone on Good Morning America and why she chose to return to the show. “It feels like home. There’s so many people that still work on the show that were there when I was a contestant and I feel like being on both sides of the coin, I’ll be able to hopefully offer some insight and help and a different viewpoint.” 

[RELATED: Carrie Underwood Reveals the Type of ‘American Idol’ Judge She’ll Be: “I Can’t Lie”]

Carrie Underwood Struggles When It Comes To Lying

With fans thrilled about Underwood returning to American Idol, the singer is the first alum to return as a judge. Not knowing her style when it comes to judging and offering advice, Underwood admitted, “I have a big problem… I can’t lie, I just can’t, you can tell. I feel like I’ll be very honest but hopefully, I can be very constructive and encouraging.”

While wanting to help discover the next American Idol, co-host Sam Champion explained how he found it hard to believe Underwood could be hard on the contestants. Seeming to agree with the claims, the singer revealed, “Oh gosh no. Just ask my kids. I feel like I’m not too (hard).”

Although fans praised Underwood and the decision to bring her back as a judge, the new season of American Idol isn’t scheduled to air until early 2025. So fans will have to wait a few months before seeing the former winner take her seat at the judge’s table.

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