Carrie Underwood is back where it all began the 2005 American Idol winner is set to replace Katie Perry as a judge for the upcoming 23rd season announced on Good Morning America Underwood shared her excitement and vision for her new role during an interview in Las Vegas I feel incredibly blessed to be rooted in country music but I've also explored many other genres Underwood said I've even got a song with Papa Roach right now it's a blast she emphasized her versatility and her approach to judging I aim to be honest and constructive but always kind after all we're part of someone's dream Journey from that moment on Underwood is the first Idol Alum to join the judge's panel bringing her wealth of experience and success including eight Grammy Awards and numerous country music accolades she will join returning judges Lionel Richie and Luke bran with Ryan CEST continuing as host get ready for an exciting new season of American Idol premiering early 2025