Reconsidering Carrie Underwood’s Longevity as an American Idol Judge

When it was announced that one of my all-time favorite singers, Carrie Underwood, would become a judge on American Idol season 23, I was overjoyed. I envisioned her being a long-term member of the judging panel. However, my perspective has since shifted, as her stardom makes it unlikely for her to remain in the reality singing competition for an extended period. Carrie is the ideal fit to replace Katy Perry, joining fellow judges Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie, especially given her significant history with the show as the winner of season 4 back in 2005.

Over the years, Carrie has not only continued to perform on American Idol but has also taken on mentorship roles, notably during season 20’s dedicated theme night to her. Since her initial triumph, she has carved out a remarkable career, becoming one of the most successful winners in the show’s history, celebrated as a global icon and a country music powerhouse. Despite her attachment to the program, I believe her level of fame will ultimately limit her tenure as a judge beyond season 23.

Carrie Underwood’s Celebrity Status Limits Her Time on American Idol

Carrie Underwood’s Career is Flourishing

Since winning American Idol, Carrie has achieved phenomenal success, selling over 85 million records globally and releasing an impressive 28 number-one hits. Her accolades include eight Grammy Awards, 17 American Music Awards, 12 Billboard Music Awards, 16 ACM Awards, nine CMA Awards, 25 CMT Music Awards, and ten People’s Choice Awards among others. In addition to her music career, she has headlined seven tours and secured a Las Vegas residency titled “Reflection,”which is set to run through 2025.

With nine studio albums under her belt, Carrie’s artistic endeavors show no signs of slowing down. Yet, she is also a devoted wife and mother to two young sons, Isaiah (8) and Jacob (5). It’s possible that she accepted her judging role in season 23 to find stability after two decades of relentless touring and recording. However, I feel it’s difficult to believe that Carrie’s journey in music is anywhere close to an end.

If Carrie chooses to produce a new album and embark on another tour, fulfilling her duties as an American Idol judge may become increasingly challenging, if not impossible. This scenario parallels Katy Perry’s departure, as she opted to refocus on her music career after realizing that juggling her commitments with the show was untenable. I foresee Carrie pursuing new musical projects soon, indicating that her tenure as a judge may be limited.

Katy Perry May Have Future Plans to Return to American Idol

Katy Perry Hints at Possible Return to the Show

Katy Perry served as a judge for seven consecutive seasons alongside Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan, forming the original panel after ABC revived American Idol in 2018 following its cancellation by FOX in 2016. Her exit was the first significant change in the judging lineup for the ABC version, which surprised many fans, including myself, who cherished her dynamic presence on the show.

During her tenure, Katy was loved for her quirky style and unwavering encouragement for contestants. While she was a passionate supporter, she also provided constructive criticism, guiding participants toward their potential. Though disappointed by her departure, I understood her desire to refocus on her music career after dedicating several years to uplifting other artists.

After the season 22 finale, I was thrilled when Katy suggested that she might revisit her role. In an interview with ET, she said, “Keep that seat hot. I mean, who knows. I loved everything I got to experience and learn.”To me, this signals that Carrie is just filling in for her while Katy promotes her new album, 143, and prepares for a global tour, “The Lifetimes Tour,”set for 2025.

Keep that seat hot. I mean, who knows. I loved everything I got to experience and learn.

Another indication of Katy’s potential return is that her latest album, 143, didn’t meet expectations, facing disappointing reviews and lackluster sales. Given her strong connection to American Idol, it stands to reason that returning to the show could reinvigorate her career, especially since she had considerable success while judging.

During its original run on FOX, American Idol featured multiple judge rotations. The show commenced with the iconic trio of Simon Cowell, Paula Abdul, and Randy Jackson, later introducing several others, including Jennifer Lopez, Mariah Carey, and Nicki Minaj, among others. Notably, Jennifer Lopez returned to the panel several times, filling the role across multiple seasons while taking a season off for other commitments.

Now that ABC’s American Idol has undergone its first major judging shakeup, it appears that future seasons may experience continuous changes in judges. Carrie could exit, Katy might rejoin, or new names could be added to the roster. This evolving landscape creates an exciting atmosphere for fans as we eagerly anticipate the next developments on the show. Though I believe Carrie will make a fantastic judge, her other commitments are poised to take precedence.

There is a possibility for Carrie to stay involved with the show, even if Katy decides to return, as American Idol has previously navigated multiple judges. However, given Carrie’s immense popularity and ongoing career trajectory, it’s likely that her role will be short-lived. Despite her legendary status, huge opportunities still await her in the future. While I’m thrilled to see Carrie on American Idol, I ultimately believe her time will be brief as she shines even brighter in her musical pursuits.

American Idol season 23 is set to premiere on Sunday, March 9, 2025, exclusively on ABC.

Source: ET

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