Carrie Underwood To Return To ‘American Idol’ As Newest Judge

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Carrie Underwood. Photo: Randee St. Nicholas

Season four winner Carrie Underwood will return to American Idol as its newest judge. She will join fellow country star Luke Bryan and music legend Lionel Richie on the judging panel as well as longtime host Ryan Seacrest for the music competition series’ 23rd overall season, and eighth season on ABC and Hulu.

“Carrie Underwood is the first American Idol alum ever to join the judging panel. Her global superstar status as the most successful Idol winner to date makes her a perfect fit for the show. She embodies the true spirit of Idol, as she herself is the definition of the Cinderella story. Our future hopefuls will have the chance to receive advice from someone who has walked in their exact footsteps every step of the way,” states Megan Wolflick, Showrunner & Executive Producer, American Idol. “Carrie has always been a strong supporter of Idol, and I’m thrilled for her to be reunited with our Idol family.”

“This upcoming season marks 20 years since Carrie won America’s hearts on Idol, and launched her successful multi-Grammy-winning career. As a former ‘Idol’ and dynamic musical force, she brings a remarkably unique perspective to one of the most popular shows on television,” says Craig Erwich, President, Disney Television Group. “This is a full-circle moment both for the show and audiences at home who have been tuning in for over two decades. Welcome home, Carrie.”

Since it began airing on ABC, American Idol has been a top unscripted series on the network in terms of total viewers. It currently ranks as the No. 1 most social entertainment series on broadcast or cable with over 63 million total social interactions.

Auditions for the upcoming season will kick off on Aug. 12 with the return of “Idol Across America,” the live virtual nationwide search for the next music sensation, taking place across all 50 states and Washington, D.C. Those auditioning will be given the opportunity to showcase their talents in front of a producer across any official audition date for a chance to face the judges. Contenders will also be able to audition during open call dates, and auditions will be open worldwide to all those eligible. For more information, click here.

Liza Anderson
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