Carrie Underwood Talks Replacing Katy Perry on ‘American Idol,’ Teases What Audiences Can Expect From Her as a Judge

Carrie Underwood is ready to take a seat at the American Idol judges’ table.

The country singer and 2005 Idol winner discussed replacing judge Katy Perry, who earlier this year made the surprise reveal that the 22nd season would be her last after seven seasons.

Underwood’s return to Idol as a judge was formally announced on Good Morning America.

During an interview in Las Vegas for The Highway’s Music Row Happy Hour special, Underwood reacted to her new role and teased what audiences can expect from her as a judge.

“I feel like I’ve been so blessed to obviously be so rooted in country music, but I’ve been able to be a part of many other genres or music as well,” Underwood said. “I mean, I’ve got a song with Papa Roach right now. It’s a lot of fun.”

“I like to think that I am versatile. Hopefully, when I listen to people come and audition, I can have any lens I need to put on in terms of what music I’m thinking,” she added.

When it comes to her judging technique, Underwood shared that she will be “honest and constructive but still kind” when giving her input.

“And I think that’s the whole point, ’cause people are coming in and, you know, it’s dreams. You’re a part of somebody’s story from that moment on,” she said. “I think it’s important to be honest, but it’s also very important to be kind, so hopefully I can marry all of those together and be a good judge.”

Underwood marks the first Idol alum to join the judges panel. After being crowned the Idol winner of the competition series’ fourth season, the singer has achieved a successful career, winning eight Grammy Awards and a combined 25 Academy of Country Music and Country Music Association awards. She’s also had eight albums (plus a greatest hits compilation) top the U.S. country charts, four of which hit No. 1 on the Billboard 200.

She will join returning judges Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan. Ryan Seacrest also returns to host. The 23rd season of American Idol is slated to premiere in early 2025.