Katy Perry got emotional during the American Idol season finale on Sunday, May 19, after the winner, Abi Carter, was announced. Perry’s journey as an American Idol judge ended after she joined the show in 2018. The ‘Dark Horse’ singer hugged her fellow judges, Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie, in a heartfelt moment.
Katy Perry Announces Departure from American Idol After Seven Seasons
Season 22 winner, Abi Carter, wowed the audience with her performance of Billie Eilish’s ‘What Was I Made For?’ Will Moseley and Jack Blocker were the other two talented finalists. On Jimmy Kimmel Live!, Perry disclosed her departure from American Idol after seven seasons, revealing that she has more upcoming projects this year.
“I think this probably will be my last show, my last season for Idol,” said Perry. “I mean, I love Idol so much. It’s connected me with the heart of America, but I feel like I need to go out and feel that pulse to my own beat, you know what I’m saying, Jimmy?”
Luke Bryan Reflects on Katy Perry’s Impact as an American Idol Judge
Luke Bryan shared his thoughts on Perry’s exit in an interview with ‘Taste of Country Nights.’ “I had heard whispers that she was thinking about it — it wasn’t, like, a huge shock,” he said. “It’s been a good run with Katy, and she and I have developed a great friendship and to work alongside her. I mean, heck, I was there before her daughter was born, and now her daughter is [3 years] old.”
ABC has not yet announced who will take Perry’s spot in season 23.