Katy Perry – Exiting

Katy Perry is exiting the series and will not be returning as a judge for season 23.

“I’m just trying to make space for other things. It’s not like me ending this show means I’m going to go retire on an island, even though that would be fabulous. I’m gonna go to work,” Katy told ET about why she’s exiting.

Original Producer Wylleen May – Exiting

Wylleen May, who was one of the founding producers on American Idol since season 1, will be exiting the show. She’s saying the exit has nothing to do with the HR investigation that took place last year.

“It is hard to express the gratitude I have to the team at Fremantle and American Idol, the place I knew as home for the last 22 years. It may sound cliche, but it was my absolute honor to work day in and day out with people I consider to be some of the most talented, dedicated, and devoted in the business. I will miss you terribly,” Wylleen said in a statement to Deadline.

“That being said, I am sad to be leaving. I will forever cherish my time with Idol, and hope I am remembered for my experience, passion, and dedication to my role. All we want for ourselves is to know that our work had a lasting impact. I am excited for my next journey, and what that will bring. Sometimes you need a little push forward, and I am grateful for all of it – beginning, middle, and end,” she added.

Her exit from the show comes after an HR investigation happened.

“Unfortunately, my exit has been the subject of hurtful speculation and innuendo. Yes, at the end of 2023, I was the subject of an HR investigation following a complaint about how I interacted with certain members of my team. I fully and completely cooperated with this investigation, and it was closed quickly without any action taken. The decision to move on from me to a new [Executive in Charge of Production] is not related, and any implication otherwise is completely misleading and inaccurate,” she added.

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Luke Bryan – Returning as Judge!

Luke, who has served as a judge since Season 16, is returning for season 23, according to GMA!

Carrie Underwood – New Judge!

Past American Idol winner Carrie Underwood has joined as the newest judge!

Ryan Seacrest – Returning as Host

Ryan, who has hosted the show since Season 1, is returning for season 23, according to GMA!

Lionel Richie – Returning as Judge

Lionel, who has served as a judge since Season 16, is returning for season 23, according to GMA!

The lineup for American Idol‘s 23rd season is officially solidified!

So far, we’ve learned of two major exits that will be taking place ahead of the upcoming season, which is expected to air on ABC in 2025. In addition, ABC has confirmed that Carrie Underwood is joining the judges panel this season after her name was rumored this week.

Keep reading to find out about the changes coming to American Idol in 2025….