Fans React to ‘Crazy’ News: Carrie Underwood Joins ‘American Idol’ as Judge

After enduring a long and fervent wait, the new judge for American Idol has finally been confirmed. Former American Idol winner Carrie Underwood will be stepping in to fill the vacancy left by Katy Perry’s departure.

The 39-year-old “Roar” singer announced her exit from the judging panel for the show’s 22nd season, spurring a swirl of speculation about who would take her place. Names like Jennifer Lopez, Kelly Clarkson, and Jelly Roll were all floated as potential replacements. But the decision to go with Carrie Underwood, the 41-year-old “Hate My Heart” singer, seems perfectly fitting. After all, she won the fourth season of the competition in 2005 and has since become one of its most enduring success stories. We couldn’t be more thrilled!

The official announcement came on Thursday, August 1st, via an Instagram post from the show, confirming that the eight-time Grammy winner would join Lionel Richie, 75, and Luke Bryan, 48, on the judging panel.

The post was poignant and well-curated, featuring a video with flashbacks of Carrie Underwood’s initial auditions, performances, and her crowning moment as the winner. It also included an interview with Carrie in the present day, reflecting on her American Idol journey.

Underwood’s return to the show is set for spring 2025, which will also mark the 20th anniversary of her spectacular win. Unsurprisingly, fans took to the show’s Instagram comments section to express their excitement about Carrie stepping into Katy Perry’s shoes.

“You guys couldn’t have picked better than this. Carrie is one of the reasons American Idol became an iconic show,” praised one fan, adding a heart eyes emoji. “The absolute best option for the next judge – haven’t watched in years and now I’ll definitely be watching again!” exclaimed another, also adding heart eyes emojis. A third simply stated: “Iconic casting choice.”

Another fan shouted, “Best American Idol winner ever! Can’t wait to watch!” and added hand praising and red heart emojis. “I’m so emotional!” wrote another enthusiastic supporter, accompanied by a crying emoji. Even Ryan Seacrest, the show’s host, chimed in with his excitement: “She’s going to be fantastic. Welcome home!” How touching!

“I’m so happy,” commented another fan, while someone else noted how it was a “full circle moment” for Underwood. “I’m so excited! I may actually watch American Idol again!” another fan admitted, and one more said, “I’m screaming!”

Many were also quick to thank the show for bringing Carrie on board. “I’m SO excited for next season! Thank you @americanidol for choosing @carrieunderwood as a judge!” one grateful fan wrote, followed by a red heart emoji. “This is crazy! We love it!” added another approving fan with heart eyes emojis.

With such a positive reception from fans and a compelling narrative that ties back to her roots with the show, Carrie Underwood’s addition to the judging panel promises to bring a renewed sense of excitement and authenticity to American Idol. Her experience and success since winning the show make her an outstanding choice, ensuring that the tradition of discovering great talents continues.

Get ready, because the upcoming season is gearing up to be nothing short of spectacular!

Source: Splash News