Who Does Katy Perry Want As Her American Idol Replacement?

Katy Perry is leaving "American Idol" after season 22!

As part of her efforts to make things seamless, the singer disclosed in a recent interview who she would love to step in after her departure. It comes after Perry announced it was time to depart from the long-running singing competition. 

Katy Perry Name-Dropped Jelly Roll As Her Potential 'American Idol' Replacement

Perry has named the music star she wants to join Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan as an "American Idol" judge. Suggesting a breakout country superstar with face tattoos and a heart of gold, the 39-year-old said:

The disclosure, which came after Monday, April 15's live show, saw Perry adding, "So I love him. And to have any of these guys plus Jelly on the show would be amazing. I love you, Jelly!"

Regardless of who eventually takes over when she leaves, the "Last Friday Night" hitmaker wants them to be candid and outspoken. As she told E! News, "I want a truthteller. I want someone who is not afraid to tell the truth in a graceful way."

Additionally, Perry wants the future judge to ignore negative comments from online critics. She uttered, "Just someone who has a strong sense of self, who listens to their intuition." 

Is The 'I Kissed A Girl' Planning A Future Comeback?

According to The Blast, Perry confirmed her decision to step down as an "American Idol" judge during her Friday, April 12 appearance on "Good Morning America." 

During her chat with the hosts, she expressed that while her time as a judge on the show had been deeply fulfilling, she needed to take time for other things. 

"It's been an amazing journey with them," she remarked, referring to her fellow judges and host Ryan Seacrest. 

Perry hinted that her exit might be temporary when she added "for now" to her statement. While the "Hot N Cold" singer's plan to return remains unclear, she did ask her successor to "Keep my seat warm."

Jordin Sparks Wants Her Shot At The 'American Idol' Seat

Recall that Perry had initially mentioned her impending "American Idol" exit to Jimmy Kimmel on his eponymous late-night show in February. At the time, she asserted:

Days later, singer Jordin Sparks expressed her eagerness to step into Perry's shoes. The "No Air" songstress, who won the show's sixth season at age 17, declared her motive in a post shared via X.

She wrote, "Oh hiiii @AmericanIdol —I hear a seat opened up at the judge's table! I'm putting my name in the hat!"

Social Media Users Are Behind Jordin Sparks' 'American Idol' Return

The Blast observed that Jordin's statement immediately took off, with fans rallying around her with their support. While one person typed, "I would actually watch it if you were a judge," another lengthily noted:

"'Idol' winner, relevant artist as a judge! Absolutely makes sense. Please do this for the FANS," a third fan pleaded, as a fourth stated, "I always said they should do at least 1 if not all the seasons with past winners! Imagine you, Kelly [Clarkson], Carrie [Underwood] & Fantasia."

A fifth social media user pointed out, "That would be smart business for sure," and a sixth claimed, "This would be a sickening comeback."

Katy Perry Is Allegedly Focused On Growing Her Family With Her Fiancé

Meanwhile, a source previously dished that Perry's decision to leave the ABC show was largely influenced by her need to start a family with her man, Orlando Bloom. In their words:

Per The Blast, the insider added that Perry was inspired by Bloom's parenting skills, which have deepened her appreciation for family life. They divulged: