When the revival of American Idol originally aired on ABC back in 2018, fans were excited get re-acquainted with the reality show from the early aughts. People tuned in week after week to meet new emerging artists, each with their own emotional story to tell. What's more, folks loved seeing the contestants interact with judges Luke Bryan, Lionel Richie and Katy Perry, who were the perfect trio to mentor them along the way.
Now, American Idol is seven seasons (overall 22) in, and it's hard to imagine a time when the judges won't be on our screens on Sunday nights. But changes are afoot for the hit TV show, as Katy announced during a February 13 appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live that she plans to exit the show after the newest installment wraps later this year.
"Well, they'll find out tonight," she joked to Jimmy Kimmel about her co-stars (including host Ryan Seacrest) learning the news. "They know I have some things planned for this year. It's going to be a very exciting year, Jimmy, for all pop star girlies. Let's just say I'm creating space for my new wingspan."
Given how Katy has been a staple for such a long time on American Idol, fans likely want to know the reason behind her surprise career move. Well, she elaborated how she wanted to get back to her music career, as it has been almost four years since she released her last album Smile. What's more, the last time she went on tour was back in 2018, per Vulture.
"I feel like I need to go out and find that pulse to my own beat, you know what I’m saying, Jimmy?" she added on the late-night show.
While the details behind Katy's next steps are being kept under wraps, one person is already hoping she can take the singer's place on the judges' panel. Upon hearing the news, American Idol winner Jordin Sparks shared on X (formerly known as Twitter) her hopes to come back to the show that started her entire music journey.
Oh hiiii @AmericanIdol—I hear a seat opened up at the judges table!" she tweeted on February 16. "I’m putting my name in the hat! 🙋🏻♀️."
No matter the reason, we can't wait to see what's next for Katy!
