Is Katy Perry leaving American Idol after Season 22?

American Idol Season 22 aired on February 18 with all three of last year’s judges, but it was rumored that Katy Perry might be leaving the franchise. Here’s everything we know about the situation.

For the past seven years, American Idol viewers have gotten used to seeing the trio of Luke Bryan, Katy Perry, and Lionel Richie mentor talents on the show.

However, the singing competition’s producers were forced to change the judges’ panel when Katy Perry announced her sudden exit from the series on Jimmy Kimmel Live! She claimed that Season 22 would be her last on American Idol.

Season 22 of American Idol marks Katy Perry’s seventh season with the franchise. The pop star was the face of the show after Simon Cowell left in 2010, but will be pursuing other ventures after this season.

Who will replace Katy Perry on American Idol?

Lionel was questioned about this during his appearance on Jimmy Kimmel’s talk show and said, “You know, they are keeping tight-lipped because I don’t even know, but I’m telling you… It’s gonna be really interesting.”

The producers of American Idol stayed quiet about who was set to replace Katy’s seat on the panel, leading to several rumored names going around.

The biggest name being thrown around was of the immensely popular singer-songwriter Taylor Swift.

Jennifer Lopez, the ex-Season 10 judge, was rumored to have received an offer to return by the show producers.

An insider told DailyMail: “J.Lo will be asked to come back. When people come back, things work… People like nostalgia, and people like Jen. It would be a big get to get her back.” Moreover, there could be a possibility of the entire judges’ panel being revamped.

Fans were thrilled to know that Season 6 winner, Jordin Sparks, made a post on X/Twitter volunteering to take Katy’s open spot.