Katy Perry Departs 'American Idol' After Seven Seasons
Katy Perry bid farewell to "American Idol" on Sunday during the show's season finale. Perry, 39, had been a judge on the long-running competition since its revival by ABC in 2018. She exited the show on 19 May 2024, marking an end to her six-year tenure alongside fellow judges Lionel Richie, 74, and Luke Bryan, 47.
The episode featured a medley tribute by the female top 12 contestants, performing some of Perry's iconic songs including “Teenage Dream,” “Dark Horse,” and “California Gurls.” Perry, visibly emotional, joined on stage for a duet of “What Makes a Woman” with third-place finalist Jake Blocker.
During the finale, season 22 winner Abi Carter performed Billie Eilish’s “What Was I Made For,” bringing Perry to tears. While she was visibly moved throughout the show, Perry did not deliver a formal farewell speech.
Perry had previously announced her departure in February, revealing her plans during an interview on "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" without prior notice to her co-judges. She expressed hope that her replacement would be "fearless and outspoken."
The finale also saw Perry wearing a notable dress featuring the faces of every top 24 contestant from her tenure, a look that required a team of seven to transport.
ABC has not yet announced a replacement for Perry, who joins a list of past judges including Simon Cowell, Paula Abdul, and Jennifer Lopez. Ryan Seacrest hinted at Jelly Roll as a possible new judge, but no official replacement has been confirmed.