Katy Perry Quitting 'American Idol'
Katy Perry leaving American Idol after Season 22 (Season 7 on ABC)
"It's going to be a very, very exciting year...for all pop star girlies," Katy Perry said as she revealed that she's leaving American Idol after Season 22 (Season 7 on ABC.)
Less than a week before the American Idol premiere on Sunday, Feb. 18, Perry broke the news Monday night during a lighthearted segment on Jimmy Kimmel Live.
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The eponymous host asked the pop star how long she would do the show. Perry initially sidestepped the question by talking about the upcoming Brazilian music festival, Rock in Rio, but then confirmed her departure.
"I think this will probably be my last show—my last season for Idol," Perry said in a less than concrete statement. "I love Idol so much. It's connected me with the heart of America, but I need to go out and feel that pulse. That pulse to my own beat."
Watch the full announcement on Instagram.
Her departure almost aligns (if her math doesn't) with OG Idol alums Simon Cowell, Paula Abdul and Randy Jackson who each judged eight seasons (1-8).
"I love the show so much but I want to go and see the world and maybe bring new music, she said. Could this mean a new album and tour are in the works? She kept mum on details only saying she's been in the studio "for a while."
"Let's just say I'm creating space for my new wingspan," she said.
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Kimmel teasingly asked if she knew her replacement yet but the question went unanswered.
"Is like King Charles, do you have a succession plan?" he asked. "Will there be a coronation where you name someone else and put the crown on their head?"
No word yet on what this means for fellow judges Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie who have not yet commented on Perry's departure or their futures on the reality talent show.
ABC has made no comment on Perry's announcement.
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