ABC eyes Grammy-winning artists to replace Katy Perry on American Idol

Ahead of American Idol's 22nd season in February, Katy Perry announced that she won't be returning for season 23 after being a judge for seven years. Her departure leaves a vacant seat, and ABC is eager to fill it quickly with another Grammy-winning megastar. In the past, we've seen plenty of artists sharing their insights with hopeful musicians placing their dreams in the judges' hands.

The tradition will continue in the upcoming season, and there have been talks of the newest candidate. However, it should be noted that Disney, the parent company of ABC, hasn't made its final decision. The possible contenders are suggestions given by veteran judge Luke Bryan. Interestingly enough, his picks are similar to Perry's, as they're pop artists.

Like the hopefuls, the judge competition is just as fierce.

Possible Grammy-winners to take Katy Perry's America Idol spot

Speaking with Billboard, Luke Bryan named his top choices for Perry's replacement on the show, and he's not wrong. He chose some talented people who have carved their unique paths in the music world.

"I’ve said several names. I think P!nk has been in the talks, Miley Cyrus has been in the talks, [and] Meghan Trainor has been in the talks."

Out of the three, P!nk would be the best fit. Not only could American Idol use a little rocker edge, but P!nk would bring her trademark attitude to the panel and tell it how it really is to survive in the industry. However, the singer revealed her feelings about possibly becoming a judge on Idol and sitting in Perry's chair, which boils down to her conscience.

"I don't like to hurt people's feelings," she told Entertainment Tonight back in May, adding she's "not set up" to provide criticism or feedback if the contestant(s) is struggling or needs improvement. P!nk is sticking with her tour life, as she's currently headlining the US.

Another great choice would be the first American Idol winner, Kelly Clarkson, for she would reflect on her contestant experience and tie it in with her role as a judge. She could do the gig while balancing her role as the host of The Kelly Clarkson Show, renewed for a sixth season that'll premiere this fall. Clarkson was a judge for NBC's The Voice for eight seasons before leaving in 2022, so she has the Idol judge recommendation box checked. But don't expect her to be on the ABC show where she got her start in 2003, as she wants to spend that time with her two kids in New York.

Yet, Bryan and his colleague, Lionel Richie, aren't even sure if they'll return for season 23, as Disney has been in the shadows of what to do with Idol's future. Idol's host, Ryan Seacrest, is set to become the new Wheel of Fortune host this fall, following Pat Sajak's retirement. His latest job could mean his Idol days are in limbo, possibly affecting American Idol's quality and success.

Bryan was honesty with Billboard regarding Disney's take of keeping him, Richie, and Seacrest on the roster opens a wave of suspense.

"It’s been something Disney been really tightlipped about with me and Lionel and Ryan. We currently haven’t heard what the story is on who’s coming back, and if Lionel and I are coming back. I think Disney is just trying to figure out what they want to do and we’re just kind of sitting back and waiting until they decide."

So, for now, it's up in the air on who will be returning for the upcoming season. We'll keep you posted as news comes in about American Idol. Stay tuned to Hidden Remote.