In February, Katy Perry shook up the American Idol universe by announcing her exit from the show after seven seasons. The announcement ignited online chatter about who the show would choose to take the “California Gurls” singer’s place beside Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie. Nearly six months later, Perry’s seat remains empty. One past American Idol winner hasn’t been shy about her desire to join the show’s judging panel. But has she heard back?
Jordin Sparks Hasn’t Heard From ‘American Idol’
In 2007, a then 17-year-old Jordin Sparks became American Idol’s youngest-ever winner, beating out Blake Lewis for the season 6 title. Now 34, with four albums and two GRAMMY nods under her belt, the “No Air” singer would like to return to the place where her career began.
Sparks is certainly eager, but she’s also realistic. The Broadway star recently told TMZ that Idol has yet to reach out to her.
“I’m sure they’ve already picked somebody by now,” Sparks said in a video clip published Friday (July 19.) “But I thought it would make sense, you know? Somebody who’s already done it. I’ve been there, I love the show, obviously. I love mentoring other people coming up to be in this industry as well.”
So Who Will Replace Katy Perry?
American Idol executives have so far stayed mum on Katy Perry’s successor. However, judges Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie have publicly dropped a few names. One name that continues to come up is Miley Cyrus. The “Flowers” singer knows the ins and outs of the music industry, having gotten her start at age 13. She also previously served as a coach on The Voice, which checks the reality TV box as well.
Pop-rock legend Pink and GRAMMY winner Meghan Trainor are also on the table, according to Bryan. Both have very different perspectives about joining Idol, however. Pink has expressed her reservations, telling Entertainment Tonight, “I don’t like hurting people’s feelings… I like my day job.”
On the flip side, Meghan Trainor never misses an opportunity to campaign for Perry’s spot. calling it her “dream job.” “Please. I’ve been going everywhere, being like, ‘Hi, American Idol. Please. Choose me to be a coach … or judge,’” Trainor told Access Hollywood. “I will be the best. I will give my whole heart and soul. I promise. Please pick me, choose me, love me. I will do everything.”
