Carrie Underwood Makes Her Grand Return as a Judge on ‘American Idol’ After 20 Years
Twenty years ago, Carrie Underwood made her unforgettable entrance at her American Idol audition, hoping to break into the music industry. Hailing from Checotah, Oklahoma, the 21-year-old wowed the judges with her exceptional vocal talent and captivating stage presence. Her performance was so impressive that she quickly became a fan favorite, eventually taking home the title of American Idol season 4 winner. Little did the world know, this was only the beginning of Underwood’s incredible journey to superstardom. Fast forward to today, and Underwood, now 41 years old, has sold over 85 million records worldwide, cementing herself as one of the most successful artists in country music history. Her return to American Idol in season 23 as a judge on March 9th marks an exciting new chapter for both her and the beloved show. Early promotional clips of the season suggest that viewers will be in for an emotionally charged ride, with plenty of heartwarming and tear-jerking moments.
Carrie Underwood Breaks Down in Emotional ‘American Idol’ Promo
For the past seven seasons, American Idol fans have watched the dynamic trio of judges—Luke Bryan, Katy Perry, and Lionel Richie—offer their advice and critiques to talented contestants. However, after Katy Perry’s departure from the show last May, American Idol made the groundbreaking decision to bring back one of its most iconic winners, Carrie Underwood, to fill Perry’s seat. This marks a historic first for the competition: no former contestant has ever returned to serve as a judge.
Carrie Underwood’s perspective as a former contestant brings a unique emotional depth to her judging role. As a seasoned artist with over two decades of experience in the music industry, Underwood can relate to the hopes, dreams, and struggles of the aspiring musicians who audition for American Idol. It’s clear that this new chapter is deeply emotional for the “Cry Pretty” singer, as evidenced in a new promo clip exclusive to E! News.
In the promo, a contestant opens up to the judges about how his grandparents raised him since he was just two years old. He praises his grandmother for dedicating her entire life to nurturing his dreams, and in a heartwarming moment, she joins him onstage. Underwood, deeply moved by the story, can’t hold back her tears. When Luke Bryan jokingly asks, “You okay over there?” Underwood responds tearfully, “I’m not.” This raw and authentic display of emotion from the country music icon perfectly captures the heartfelt nature of her role as a judge.
A New Era for ‘American Idol’ with Carrie Underwood and Jelly Roll
The highly anticipated 23rd season of American Idol will kick off on March 9th at 8 p.m. Eastern time on ABC, with Carrie Underwood taking her place at the judging table alongside her fellow judges, Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie. Underwood is excited to be back on the show, bringing her experience, wisdom, and passion to the next generation of musical talent. In a new promo, she shares her enthusiasm for the competition, saying, “This show is for people that have the talent, have the dream, and they just need a chance.”
But Carrie Underwood is not the only big change in season 23. This season also introduces Jelly Roll, the breakout country star, as the show’s first-ever “Artist in Residence.” Known for his hit song “Son of a Sinner,” Jelly Roll previously appeared as a guest mentor in season 22, and now he’ll be offering personalized advice to contestants during Hollywood Week. Jelly Roll expresses his excitement about his new role in a video message, saying, “I’m ‘American Idol’s’ Artist in Residence! I feel like I’m giving them the energy they need. I’m uplifting and trying to get ’em going!”
With Carrie Underwood’s emotional return as a judge and Jelly Roll’s fresh perspective as an artist mentor, American Idol season 23 promises to be one of the most exciting and heartwarming seasons yet. Be sure to tune in when the show premieres on March 9th at 8 p.m. on ABC to catch all the action, talent, and unforgettable moments!
