Carrie Underwood Joins 'American Idol' as Judge in Season 23 Premiere

The Season 4 winner replaces Katy Perry, bringing firsthand experience and emotional moments to the judges' panel.

Carrie Underwood, a Grammy-winning country artist and Season 4 winner, joins 'American Idol' as the first alum-turned-judge, replacing Katy Perry after her departure to focus on her music career.
The Season 23 premiere highlighted Underwood's versatility, earning her the nickname 'Jukebox Carrie' as she sang along with contestants' auditions across various genres.
Notable auditions included Baylee Littrell, son of Backstreet Boys' Brian Littrell, who performed an original song and a duet with his father, and standout 17-year-old Isaiah Misailegalu, whose emotional performance impressed the judges.
Kolbi Jordan received the coveted platinum ticket after an impressive audition and a surprise performance at a Titans vs. Patriots game, fast-tracking her through Hollywood Week.
The showrunner emphasized Underwood's unique perspective as a former contestant and her dynamic with fellow judges Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan, marking a new era for the long-running competition.