2025 marked a special moment for Carrie Underwood as she returned to American Idol. While winning the fourth season of American Idol back in 2005, she took the stage this time as a judge. Appearing to enjoy her time as a judge, the singer helped Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie sift through dozens of auditions to find that perfect voice. And while singer Jamal Roberts walked away as the winner, fans and even Bryan are wondering what the future will hold for Underwood and if she will return to American Idol in 2026.
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For fans of American Idol, the wait for a new season just started. With season 23 ending back in May, the hit show won’t return until 2026. Although having to wait, fans continued to discuss the season and the odds of Underwood returning. Throughout her time on the show, Underwood garnered considerable praise for her feedback, support, and interactions with her fellow judges.
Speaking with Taste of Country Nights, Bryan shared his own thoughts about the new season and Underwood, who was recently announced to be returning to Sunday Night Football for the 13th season. Although not knowing what Underwood was thinking, he admitted, “She really enjoyed it. I know she had a great time in that role.” As for the future, Bryan added, “My prediction would be highly favorable.”
Luke Bryan Questions His Own Future On ‘American Idol’
While not a definite answer, Bryan would know better than most, as he sat beside her for several months. With the possibility of Underwood returning, fans might not want to get too excited, as Bryan wasn’t sure if he would return.
Having judged numerous seasons, Bryan’s future on the show might be nearing its end. “Idol is kind of a year-by-year, ‘Do we do it or not?”
With Bryan leaving his options open for now, he insisted, “Last year was really really incredible with Carrie and Lionel and Ryan. And the main thing is just, have fun with American Idol and have fun with the kids [contestants].”
As Bryan believed Underwood’s legacy on American Idol was just getting started, for himself, he stated, “We’ll see what happens.”
(Photo by Christopher Willard/Disney via Getty Images)
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