Carrie Underwood’s Triumphant Return to American Idol

Carrie Underwood is returning to her roots—not her Southern roots, but her American Idol roots.

Many remember Carrie Underwood as the standout contestant from season four of American Idol in 2005. Even if it’s been a while, her journey on the show is unforgettable. Now, she’s coming back to the Idol family, but this time, she’ll be on the judges’ panel.

Underwood will join Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan as a judge for the upcoming 2025 season of American Idol. She will be taking over from Katy Perry, who announced her departure from the show in February, according to People.

“Carrie Underwood, as a former Idol and a dynamic musical force, brings a remarkably unique perspective to one of the most popular shows on television,” stated Craig Erwich, president of Disney Television Group, in a press release. “This is a full-circle moment both for the show and for audiences at home who have been tuning in for over two decades. Welcome home, Carrie.”

Carrie Underwood stands out as one of American Idol’s biggest success stories, second perhaps only to Kelly Clarkson, who won the show’s inaugural season.