It’s now a full circle moment for superstar singer Carrie Underwood. The “Before He Cheats” singer will return to the singing competition show American Idol which she won season 4 of and helped launch her career 20 years ago. After much speculation who would replace Katy Perry following her departure from American Idol, news finally broke today that Underwood will be the next judge alongside Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan.

Carrie will be the first former winner to become a judge, and she has a STACKED resume to support the decision. Selling more than 85 million records worldwide, putting out 28 No. 1 singles. Other awards include 8 Grammys, 17 American Music Awards, 10 People’s Choice Awards and 7 CMA Awards.

We’ll have to wait a little while to see Carrie in the judge’s seat though, season 23 will air in the spring of 2025 and will once again be hosted by Ryan Seacrest. This announcement definitely has sparked my interest to watch the show again after not following along for the past few years.