On May 19, during the Season 22 finale of “American Idol,” Katy Perry made her last appearance as a judge. Since the show’s 2018 ABC revival, Perry, Luke Bryan, and Lionel Richie have been regulars at the judges’ table. Fans are already speculating about who will replace her in her absence.
Kelly Clarkson: A Fan Favorite Bows Out
The first “American Idol” champion Kelly Clarkson has been a fan favourite of Lionel Richie’s, who wants to see her return as a judge. Clarkson, however, has removed herself from consideration, citing obligations to her family. She said to “Entertainment Tonight” that her resolve to be more involved in her children’s life had an impact on her choice.
Not at all. No. I can’t do it because I made a promise to my children. I thought, ‘I want to be there as much as I can,'” Clarkson said. Her attempt to give priority to spending time with her children, River Rose and Remington, whom she shares with her ex-husband Brandon Blackstock, led her to relocate her talk show and personal life from Los Angeles to New York City.
“As a parent, people understand that you only have so much time with them before they don’t want to spend it with you,” Clarkson continued, citing her family as the main reason she is unable to dedicate herself fully to “American Idol.”
Fantasia Barrino: Ready and Willing
Fantasia Barrino, a different “Idol” winner, has indicated her desire to serve on the panel of judges. In a surprise appearance on the May 19 finale, Barrino expressed her excitement at taking Perry’s place.
Barrino replied, “To be honest, I would love to.” She emphasised the value of coaching competitors in career management as well as singing. Her practical approach could offer young artists priceless advice.
Jordin Sparks: Throwing Her Hat in the Ring
Another “Idol” alum, Jordin Sparks, made her interest in the part public after Perry’s declaration. “Oh hiiii @AmericanIdol—I hear a seat opened up at the judges table!” tweeted Sparks. My name is going into the hat!
Jelly Roll: Perry’s Personal Pick
Jelly Roll was recommended by Katy Perry herself as a possible substitute. His role as a mentor on the show thrilled the singer, who also appreciated his ability to interact with both contestants and viewers. “Everything he said persuaded me. I might return to church for him, he might be my pastor, and he could run for president. Perry said, “He could sell me anything,” to E! News.
Jelly Roll laughed and answered in the affirmative, taking the job before it was even offered. Perry subsequently said, “That would be too many men,” implying that his addition might shift the scales too heavily in favour of male representation on the judges’ panel.
Meghan Trainor: Eager for the Role
Meghan Trainor has also become a formidable competitor. When “Entertainment Tonight” mentioned Trainor, Luke Bryan and Ryan Seacrest both had nothing but positive things to say about her. Seacrest observed her ability and spontaneity, while Bryan found her to be a delightful and humorous person. The position piqued Trainor’s interest, as she described it as the “ultimate bucket list dream come true.”
Finding a suitable substitute for Katy Perry is a popular issue as “American Idol” gets ready for its upcoming season. Due to family obligations, Kelly Clarkson has withdrawn from consideration; nevertheless, musicians like Meghan Trainor and Jelly Roll, as well as past winners Fantasia Barrino and Jordin Sparks, are still being considered. Finding someone who can carry on Perry’s legacy by bringing a unique combination of talent, mentorship, and personality to the judges’ table will ultimately determine the winner.