Will Jelly Roll replace Katy Perry on 'American Idol'? ABC show judge praises Season 22 guest mentor

'American Idol' judge Katy Perry recently announced her brief departure from ABC show
Katy Perry compliments Jelly Roll's 'American Idol' gig (Instagram/@katyperry and @americanidol)
Katy Perry compliments Jelly Roll's 'American Idol' gig (Instagram/@katyperry and @americanidol)

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."

Jelly Roll joined Lionel Richie, Katy Perry, and Luke Bryan on 'American Idol' Season 22 to mentor contestants (ABC/EricMcCandless)
Jelly Roll joined Lionel Richie, Katy Perry, and Luke Bryan on 'American Idol' Season 22 to mentor contestants (ABC/EricMcCandless)

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."

katy Perry (@katyperry/Instagram)
Katy Perry takes a hiatus from 'American Idol' to focus on her music career (@katyperry/Instagram)

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' mentor Jelly Roll teared up during Mia Matthews's rehearsals (ABC/EricMcCandless)
'American Idol' mentor Jelly Roll teared up during Mia Matthews's rehearsals (ABC/EricMcCandless)

'American Idol' Season 22 airs on Sundays and Mondays at 8 pm ET on ABC.

GET THE BIGGEST ENTERTAINMENT STORIES
STRAIGHT TO YOUR INBOX.

MORE STORIES

The long-time team member was referred to as ‘Superman’ because they were a ‘flyer’ during performances.
1 hour ago
Kenzie introduced Dylan to her dad during her appearance on 'Love Island USA: Aftersun'
2 hours ago
The Ukrainian aerial pole artist earned Sofia Vergara’s Golden Buzzer for her one-of-a-kind performance on the talent show.
5 hours ago
The 'Love Island USA' host addressed fan speculation and reflected on her future with the Peacock dating franchise.
14 hours ago
Angela Murray finished in sixth place in ‘Big Brother’ Season 26 after Leah Peters was evicted during a double eviction
21 hours ago
‘Married at First Sight’s upcoming episodes will introduce more Seattleites moving ahead and meeting their partners.
1 day ago
‘Jeopardy!’ celebrated announcer Johnny Gilbert’s 98th birthday with a special tribute that had former contestants sharing heartfelt memories.
1 day ago
The fans of reality TV competitions are invited to apply for the upcoming board-game-inspired show.
1 day ago
‘In The City’ Season 1 featured familiar Bravo personalities including Amanda Batula, Kyle Cooke, Lindsay Hubbard, and others
1 day ago
‘Love Island’ USA Season 8 star Kenzie Annis, who was paired with Dylan Wrona, left a lasting impact on viewers
1 day ago