With judge Katy Perry leaving "American Idol," Luke Bryan reveals who he thinks could replace her, including Pink, Miley Cyrus, and Meghan Trainor.
Musician Luke Bryan is anticipating the selection of a new judge to fill the void left by Katy Perry's departure from "American Idol." In a recent interview with Billboard, Bryan shared his thoughts on potential replacements for the popular singing competition.
"I've mentioned several names," Bryan stated. "I believe Pink, Miley Cyrus, and Meghan Trainor have been discussed for the position."
Luke Bryan Prepares for 'American Idol' Replacement as Katy Perry Departs
Perry, a beloved judge on "American Idol" for seven seasons, announced her departure in February 2023 after season 22 ended. Since then, speculation has been rife about who will succeed her.
Both Pink and Trainor have expressed their thoughts on the prospect of joining the show. Pink told "Entertainment Tonight" in May that she hesitated due to her aversion to "hurting people's feelings." However, Trainor enthusiastically embraced the idea.
Luke Bryan Prepares for 'American Idol' Replacement as Katy Perry Departs
"I've expressed my desire for this position in every interview I've given," Trainor said on "Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen" in June 2023. "I've contacted three influential individuals in that realm and begged for the opportunity. I'm eagerly awaiting an update, but I want to make it clear that being a judge on 'American Idol' is my dream job."
Despite his recommendations, Bryan acknowledged Perry's exceptional suitability for the role and the difficulty in finding a worthy successor. Yet, he expressed confidence that producers were diligently working to identify an individual capable of matching her contributions.
Luke Bryan Prepares for 'American Idol' Replacement as Katy Perry Departs
"Katy was ideal for the job," Bryan said. "Finding someone to take her place won't be simple. But I trust that the producers are doing everything they can to fill her shoes."
Former "American Idol" runner-up Adam Lambert has also shared his opinion on who should replace Perry. During an appearance on "Watch What Happens Live" in June, he nominated LeAnn Rimes for the position.
Luke Bryan Prepares for 'American Idol' Replacement as Katy Perry Departs
"I believe LeAnn Rimes would be an excellent choice," Lambert said. "I had the pleasure of working with her on 'The Voice' in Australia, and she is a remarkable individual. Her warmth, humility, and profound sense of humor would make her a great asset to the show."
Perry herself has suggested country musician Jelly Roll as her replacement. In an interview with E! News in April, she praised his potential for exceptional performance on the show.
"I have to say, Jelly Roll was phenomenal when he appeared as a guest on the program," she said. "His words carried such conviction that he could easily persuade me to support any cause. He's an exceptional individual who would make an incredible judge."
While the replacement for Perry remains uncertain, Bryan revealed that he and fellow judge Lionel Richie were unaware of their own future on the show.
"It's been a peculiar situation," Bryan said. "Disney has kept Lionel, Ryan [Seacrest], and myself in the dark about their plans. We're still waiting to hear whether we'll be returning as judges. I suspect Disney is taking their time to determine their strategy, and we're patiently awaiting their decision."
