Lionel Richie is eager to welcome Carrie Underwood as the newest judge on “American Idol.” After Katy Perry’s recent exit, it has been confirmed that Underwood—who won season four of the show in 2005—will take her place at the judges’ table. “It makes a lot of sense,” Richie shared with E! News on August 5, during the Grammy Museum’s screening of The Greatest Night in Pop.
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“Carrie has a great story, coming from ‘American Idol.’ We don’t have to get used to her, and she knows exactly what the contestants are going through.” Richie expressed his enthusiasm about Underwood joining him and fellow judge Luke Bryan, adding, “What a great judge! Now we don’t have to explain anymore, ‘We know how you feel.’ As artists, we know how you feel, but we’ve never been in that ‘American Idol’ oval. She’s been there, done that.”
A Hope For Humor On The Judging Panel
Richie, who has been part of the show since 2018, also hopes Underwood brings a sense of humor to the panel, humorously advising her to “be a ham sandwich like the two of us” as she navigates the dynamics between himself and Bryan.
“It’s gonna be an amazing show,” he added. “Probably for the first five or six episodes, it’ll be fascinating to see her face as she deals with Luke sitting next to her, saying anything on his mind. I’m loving it.”
Underwood’s Return To ‘American Idol’ Feels Like Home
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For Underwood, the show feels like a return home. On August 2, during her announcement on Good Morning America, she shared her excitement about joining the judging panel. “There are so many people still working on the show who were there when I was a contestant,” she said. “I feel like, having been on both sides, I’ll hopefully be able to offer some valuable insights.”
When asked about her judging style, Underwood revealed that honesty is important to her, though she hopes to be constructive and encouraging. “I do have a big problem—I can’t lie,” she admitted. “But I’ll do my best to be both honest and supportive.” She reassured fans that her approach won’t be overly harsh, joking, “Just ask my kids.”
Richie On The Importance of Underwood’s Unique Perspective
Richie also emphasized the importance of Underwood bringing her unique perspective to the panel. “There’s only one Katy,” Richie told Fox News Digital, urging Underwood not to try to emulate her predecessor. “I want Carrie to come in and find her own way. I’m very happy they got Carrie because we want someone who will bring their own light to the table.”
Lionel Richie also took a moment to reflect on his own recent accomplishments. During the Grammy Museum event, he spoke about the Emmy nomination for The Greatest Night in Pop, a documentary that chronicles the recording of “We Are the World” in 1985. “To be able to show this now so that the world can see what went on behind the scenes, I’m just so happy,” he said.
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A Historic Appointment For ‘American Idol’
Underwood’s appointment marks a significant moment for “American Idol,” as it will be the first time a former winner serves as a permanent judge on the show. Auditions for the upcoming season are set to begin on August 12, with the new season premiering in spring 2025.
As fans eagerly await the new season of American Idol, Richie’s excitement about working with Underwood is palpable. With her experience and understanding of the competition, coupled with her dynamic presence, the upcoming season promises to be one to remember.
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