Ryan Seacrest Teases Exciting Farewell for Katy Perry on Her Last 'American Idol' Episode

Ryan Seacrest Teases Katy Perry s Celebratory Final Idol Appearance

Ryan Seacrest and Katy Perry. Bryan Steffy/Getty Images for Clear Channel

Ryan Seacrest has confirmed that Katy Perry will leave American Idol with a bang.

The season finale on Sunday, May 19 will not only announce the new winner but also be Perry's last time at the judges' table.

Seacrest, 49, shared with Entertainment Tonight on Tuesday, May 16, that Perry will be performing. He mentioned, "We’re gonna celebrate her all night."

Perry became a judge on American Idol in 2018, joining Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan. Richie, 74, and Bryan, 47, will continue as judges for the upcoming 23rd season, marking the show's 8th season on ABC.

Seacrest expressed his sadness at saying goodbye after seven wonderful years with her. He mentioned the strong bond they all shared and praised the judges for their amazing chemistry.

Even though Perry will no longer be a part of the show, Seacrest, who has been the host of American Idol since its inception in 2002, is not concerned about what the future holds.

"He said the show has always evolved and will continue to do so in the future."

Seacrest also mentioned that no decision has been made regarding who will replace Perry. He playfully teased that he knows some information but values his job too much to reveal it.

Seacrest didn't reveal who the replacement would be, but he mentioned that news about it will be coming soon.

He emphasized that it's a great chance to bring in someone new to the seat, adding that being next to Lionel, a legendary figure, and Luke's fun personality makes it an enjoyable opportunity, not a difficult one.

Richie expressed hope that the original American Idol winner might return home. He posted a photo with Kelly Clarkson on Instagram in April and pleaded with her to join him as a colleague.

Ryan Seacrest Teases Katy Perry s Celebratory Final Idol Appearance

Katy Perry. Disney/Eric McCandless

“Kelly, if you don’t have anything else to do, I’d like to drop that out there,” Richie told Entertainment Tonight. “Big fan!”

Perry has recommended Jelly Roll, a country music star, to take the gig. She praised him in April, saying, “He could run for president, he could be my pastor, I might go back to church for him. He could sell me anything.”

The three-hour American Idol season 22 finale will showcase finalists Abi Carter, Will Moseley, and Jack Blocker. It will be broadcasted on ABC on Sunday, May 19 at 8 p.m. ET.

Editor's P/S:

Ryan Seacrest's confirmation of Katy Perry's departure from American Idol marks a bittersweet moment for the show. Perry's vibrant personality and infectious energy have been integral to the judging panel, and her absence will undoubtedly leave a void. However, the show's resilience and ability to evolve have been evident throughout its history, and the search for a new judge is an exciting opportunity to bring fresh perspectives and dynamics to the table.

While the identity of Perry's replacement remains a closely guarded secret, Ryan Seacrest's playful teasing suggests that an announcement is imminent. The show's producers have a proven track record of finding talented and engaging judges, and the addition of a new voice to the panel alongside Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan promises to keep American Idol fresh and captivating for its loyal audience. The upcoming season 23 is poised to be a memorable one, with the search for a new American Idol taking center stage alongside the celebration of Katy Perry's legacy on the show.