This ‘American Idol’ Alum Is Replacing Katy Perry as Judge Next Season

Say hello to American Idol’s new judge, Carrie Underwood!

Earlier this morning, a new teaser clip for season 23 of American Idol was released on GMA. In the highlight video, it was revealed that the 41-year-old singer is returning as Idol’s new judge, stepping in for Katy Perry following her departure last season. 

Returning as a judge on American Idol is a full circle moment for Underwood, considering that she got her big break on the show after competing in and winning the fourth season in 2005. After winning the competition, Underwood went on to sell 85 million records worldwide, has had 28 number-one singles, has won eight Grammys and has a total of 17 American Music Awards. (NBD.)

Megan Wolflick, who is the showrunner and executive producer of American Idol, celebrated the exciting news of Underwood’s return with a written statement, which read, “Carrie Underwood is the first American Idol alum ever to join the judging panel.”

It continued, “Her global superstar status as the most successful Idol winner to date makes her a perfect fit for the show. She embodies the true spirit of Idol as she herself is the definition of the Cinderella story.”