Jelly Roll has landed an exciting new role! The country music star, 40, is stepping into the spotlight on American Idol season 23 as the show’s first-ever “Artist in Residence.”
In a YouTube video, Jelly Roll and longtime host Ryan Seacrest shared their enthusiasm over the big news.
Jelly Roll appears backstage with Jelly Roll: A Special 9/11 Tribute at iHeartRadio Theater on September 11, 2023. As he announced his new role in the clip, the Save Me singer beamed with excitement.
“I’m American Idol’s ‘Artist in Residence!'” he declared. Seacrest, 50, asked how he felt about joining the show in this capacity, to which Jelly replied, “It feels good.”
The American Idol host then remarked that it seemed like Jelly Roll was “shaping America’s future.” Jelly agreed, saying, “And I feel like I’m giving them the energy they need. I’m uplifting and trying to get ’em goin’!”
In a lighthearted moment, the Wild Ones artist then picked Seacrest up, hoisted him over his shoulder, and embraced him in a big hug.
When Does American Idol Come Back? All About the Show’s 2025 Season — Including Which Alum Is Returning as a Judge!
Season 23 of American Idol will also introduce a major change to the judging panel: the addition of Carrie Underwood.
Jelly Roll (Photo: Getty Images)
Underwood, who won season 4 of the competition two decades ago, is making history as the first former contestant to return as a judge. She will step in to replace Katy Perry and join Lionel Richie, Luke Bryan, and longtime host Ryan Seacrest for the 2025 season.
This milestone marks the first time an American Idol alum has transitioned from contestant to judge.
In a statement, Craig Erwich, president of Disney Television Group, described Underwood’s return as a “full-circle moment” for both the singer and the show’s loyal audience.
“This upcoming season marks 20 years since Carrie won America’s hearts on Idol and launched her successful, multi-Grammy Award-winning career,” Erwich said in a press release. “As a former Idol and a dynamic musical force, she brings a remarkably unique perspective to one of television’s most popular shows.”
Carrie Underwood Returns to American Idol
Carrie Underwood performing at The 64th Annual Grammy Awards.
He continued, “This is a full-circle moment both for the show and for audiences at home who have been tuning in for over two decades. Welcome home, Carrie.” Season 23 of American Idol premieres on March 9 at 8 p.m. ET on ABC.
Fans will also get an early preview of the new season on March 2, when ABC airs a special following the 97th Academy Awards.
