Will Jelly Roll replace Katy Perry on 'American Idol'? ABC show judge praises Season 22 guest mentor
SANTA MONICA, CALFORNIA: 'American Idol' judge Katy Perry recently announced her temporary departure from the ABC show judge. However, the singer recently reflected on the amazing singer who could fill her chair after her departure. In a recent interview with E! News, Katy recommended Jelly Roll, as her replacement judge.
Jelly Roll recently appeared on 'American Idol' Season 22 during Disney night to mentor aspiring singers and the viewers loved him. Katy was also impressed by his mentorship and shared, "I gotta say Jelly Roll was crazy when he came on the show." She told the outlet, "He could run for president, he could be my pastor, I might go back to church for him."
Katy further claimed, "He could sell me anything... To have any of these guys plus Jelly on the show would be amazing." The ABC show judge added, "So I love him and to have any of these guys plus Jelly on the show would be amazing. I love you, Jelly!" Regardless of her recommendation, Katy claimed she ultimately wants a "truth teller." The pop star shared, "I want someone that is not afraid to tell the truth in a graceful way."
Why is Katy Perry leaving 'American Idol'?
'American Idol' judge Katy Perry announced her departure from the ABC show to focus on her music career and her daughter. The singer recently clarified that her exit would be 'brief' and she would return to the judge's chair soon. The singer has starred on 'American Idol' for around seven seasons.
During her appearance on 'Jimmy Kimmel Live!', Katy teased she has more projects, including new music, to come later in 2024. The ABC show judge said, "I think this probably will be my last show, my last season for Idol." She added, "I mean I love Idol so much. It's connected me with the heart of America, but I feel like I need to go out and feel that pulse to my own beat."
Jelly Roll connects with Mia Matthews over their father's death
Singer and rapper Jelly Roll graced 'American Idol' Season 22 Disney Week with his rocking performance and inspiring mentorship. However, the guest performer also had an emotional moment while mentoring ABC show contestant, Mia Matthews. During the episode, Jelly broke down in tears after Mia shared about her father's tragic death.
Mia shared, "This is my first time here. He passed away before we were able to come, so it's been a really emotional and meaningful trip," adding, "This place is very special." The aspiring singer then revealed that she would be performing 'Daddy's Hands' by Holly Dunn and sang for Jelly Roll.
The aspiring singer explained she chose that song because her father was a carpenter and she remembered the look of his hands. However, Jelly Roll started crying soon after Mia hit the high note in the chorus. The rapper explained in the confessional, "Every minute with Mia for me was probably the most emotional of the day because I was so connected to my father."
The award-winning singer revealed to Mia, "I lost my father in 2019." He fought back tears and added, "It's so brave of you to pick that song. It's probably the single hardest experience I've ever had."
'American Idol' Season 22 airs on Sundays and Mondays at 8 pm ET on ABC.