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The iconic singing competition, American Idol, has launched numerous music careers over the years and now it returns for its 23rd season. There are several notable changes in the judging panel. Since its inception in 2002, the show has given platforms to aspiring artists by producing stars like Kelly Clarkson, Jennifer Hudson, and Adam Lambert. Just like other seasons, this season also brings a fresh panel to select the best of the best performers, promising new perspective to the show.
Pop star Katy Perry has left the show after seven seasons. The speculations were made after the singer announced her exit in 2024 to focus more on her career. Instead of Perry, there is a new face on the panel, a former American Idol star, Carrie Underwood. From the former contestant to a full-time judge, Underwood’s involvement in the show is remarkable. Want to know how much Underwood and the other judges are getting paid for each season? Read along.
American Idol Season 23 judging panel
The current season of American Idol boasts a set of familiar faces along with a newcomer. Renowned as a country singer and songwriter, Luke Bryan, returns to the judging panel with his expertise and charm. Bryan, who is known for his hits like Country Girl (Shake It for Me) and Play It Again, has been performing his duty as a judge in American Idol since 2018. His earnings are reported to be around $12 million for each season, marking his continued contribution to the show.
Another continued judge of the show is music legend Lionel Richie, who has been providing the wisdom he has garnered over the course of his prolific music career. He has provided some classics to the musical industry with songs like Hello and All Night Long.
Aligning with his extensive experience and stature in the musical industry, Lionel Richie earns approximately $10 million per season of American Idol. His experience in the industry provides invaluable insights to the aspiring artists of the show.
The new face on the judging panel
From season 16 to season 22, Bryan, Richie, and Katy Perry judged the show, until Perry had to bid farewell to the show to focus more on her career. Perry made that announcement in a Jimmy Kimmel show, and following that announcement in August, the show revealed Carrie Underwood as Katy Perry’s replacement.
Her return as a judge to the show marks a historic moment where a former season 4 winner of American Idol becomes a judge of the show. Since her victory in 2005, she has achieved monumental success in her musical career, with several hits like Before He Cheats and Jesus, Take the Wheel.
Reports have said that her salary from the show is half of what Katy Perry used to get per season, which is approximately $10-12 million per season.
When does American Idol season 23 premiere?
American Idol season 23 premiered on March 9 at 8 PM ET/PT on ABC. The judges of the show have traveled to different corners of the country since August 2024 to seek musical talents. A preview of the show has already been broadcast on March 2, after the 97th Oscars on ABC. The preview has featured a scene where Carrie Underwood enters the show and walks to the judge’s panel (via The Hollywood Reporter).
This season also introduces Grammy-nominated singer Jelly Roll as the first-ever Artist in Residence. He will work closely with contestants, providing mentorship and guidance throughout their journey on the show.
American Idol season 23 is streaming on ABC.
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