‘American Idol’: Carrie Underwood replaces Katy Perry as judge

Carrie Underwood
Carrie Underwood joins American Idol as judge (Photo Credit: Randee St. Nicholas)

American Idol,” has finally found a replacement for Katy Perry. The iconic show welcomes season four winner and eight-time GRAMMY-Award winner Carrie Underwood to the judging panel for season eight on ABC and Hulu. Music industry icons Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie will return for their eighth consecutive season as judges, and longtime host Ryan Seacrest also returns when the show premieres in spring 2025 for the franchise’s 23rd overall season.

“This upcoming season marks 20 years since Carrie won America’s hearts on ‘Idol’ and launched her successful multi-GRAMMY Award-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,” said 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.”

Season eight auditions will kick off Monday, Aug. 12, with the return of “Idol Across America,” the live virtual nationwide search for the next superstar, taking place across all 50 states plus Washington, D.C. Those auditioning will be given the opportunity to showcase their talents face-to-face with an “American Idol” producer, from anywhere in America, across any official audition date for a chance to proceed to the judge auditions. Contenders will also be allowed to audition during open call dates, and auditions will be open worldwide to all those eligible.

Idol Across America” auditions will be held as follows (subject to change):

Alabama, Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi (Aug 12)
Kansas, Nebraska, North Dakota, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Texas (Aug 14)
Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina (Aug 16)
Alaska, California, Hawaii, Nevada, Washington (Aug 19)
Connecticut, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania (Aug 21)
Nationwide open call (Aug 23)
Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah, Wyoming (Aug 26)
Illinois, Iowa, Minnesota, Missouri, Wisconsin (Aug 28)
Florida, Michigan, Virginia, West Virginia (Aug 29)
West and Midwest open call (Sep 4)
Indiana, Kentucky, Maine, New Hampshire, Tennessee (Sep 6)
Delaware, Maryland, Massachusetts, Ohio, Rhode Island, Vermont, Washington D.C. (Sep 9)
Nationwide open call (Sep 11)
The South open call (Sep 13)
East Coast open call (Sep 17)

For information on how to sign up for “Idol Across America” and to register to virtually audition in front of an “American Idol” producer, please visit www.americanidol.com/auditions. Contenders may audition on any “Idol Across America” date, regardless of location. For full eligibility requirements, details on specific dates, submission forms, and terms and conditions, please visit the website.

 

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About Phyllis Thomas 3357 Articles
Phyllis Thomas – Owner/Managing Editor Phyllis Thomas is the owner/managing editor of TVMusic Network. She writes all things TV, Music and Movies for TVMusic Network. She also serves as co-host of the TVMusic Network Podcast with Phyllis and Belinda which is available wherever you get your podcasts. Favorite TV Shows: Abbott Elementary, The Bear, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, The West Wing, and so many more. Follow Phyllis @Phyllis_Thomas on Twitter and by email at phyllis@tvandmusicnetwork.com