Carrie Underwood Officially Replacing Katy Perry As ‘American Idol ‘Judge 20 Years After Win

Carrie Underwood is returning to “American Idol”! “Idol” and ABC announced on Aug. 1 that the country singer is heading back to the competition series – 20 years after she won it in 2005 – as its newest judge. Carrie will be replacing Katy Perry, who left at the end of last season in May, joining Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan on the judging panel. The new season is set to premiere in 2025.