Kelly Clarkson recently spoke with Entertainment Tonight and made it clear that she will not be replacing Katy Perry as a judge on American Idol. Although fans may have hoped to see Clarkson back on the show, she cited her children and her move to New York last year as the main reasons for not taking on the role.
Clarkson, who shares two kids with ex-husband Brandon Blackstock, explained that she made a promise to her children to be there for them as much as possible. This commitment to her family was also the reason she left her coaching position on The Voice after nine seasons in 2023. The move to New York with her family and her talk show helped her find a better place personally and professionally.
During her acceptance speech at the 2024 Daytime Emmys, where her show won for outstanding daytime talk series, Clarkson thanked NBC for supporting her decision to move the show to New York and for prioritizing mental health. She emphasized the importance of acknowledging the challenges people face behind the scenes and expressed gratitude for the network’s understanding and assistance.
While Clarkson is focused on her show and her family, the search for the next American Idol judge continues. Luke Bryan mentioned that Pink, Miley Cyrus, and Meghan Trainor are being considered for the role, with country star Jelly Roll expressing interest as well. Despite the speculation, Clarkson made it clear that she will not be joining the panel this season.
As she looks forward to the upcoming season of her talk show, Clarkson is excited to bring positivity and authenticity to her work. Her decision to prioritize her family and mental well-being serves as a reminder of the importance of self-care and balance in a demanding industry. While fans may miss seeing her on American Idol, they can continue to enjoy her presence on The Kelly Clarkson Show and celebrate her continued success in the entertainment world.