Katy Perry reveals when she's leaving American Idol and why

Since ABC revived American Idol from Fox in 2018, the judges' panel has been consistent! It's been Lionel Brown, Luke Bryan, and the one and only Katy Perry. Well, we have some bittersweet news for you Idol fans. The singer revealed that she is leaving the show and her very important role as judge.

So when is that set to happen? Well, starting very soon. The upcoming American Idol season 22, which premieres Feb. 18, 2024, will be Perry's final season on the show. She shared the very surprising news none of us saw coming on the Feb. 12 episode of Jimmy Kimmel Live!:

"I think this probably will be my last show, my last season for Idol. 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," Perry told Kimmel.

"I love the show so much, but I wanna go see the world and maybe bring new music. Maybe I'll come back if they'll have me one day." "So this will be your farewell season then?" asked Kimmel. "I think so. Yes, it will," Perry responded.

In the clip, which you can watch above at around the 9:05 time mark, you can clearly see the love the pop singer has for the competition series and the people she works with. Though it sounds like Perry is ready to leave after seven seasons to pursue other opportunities. We certainly can't blame her! American Idol is a wonderful, but big commitment.

For example, last year's season began airing Feb. 19, 2023 and ended May 21. Towards the final rounds, we start to get live shows so the judges of course need to be present. But auditions and filming for the new season started at the end of September 2022. With promos and other duties that come with being a judge, the show does take up a lot of time.

So we definitely can't fault Perry for needing to step away to pursue other opportunities. Though this is bittersweet news as we've gotten very used to her crazy outfits, funny moments, and heartfelt advice. What is exciting is that the artist seems to be ready to create new music, one of the reasons for her departure. It takes time and focus to create albums, and the singer will need the space for that. Perry hasn't released a new album since 2020 with Smile. I'm definitely ready to hear some new tunes from her!

Before that, in September 2024 she'll be taking part in the Rock in Rio music festival in Brazil. The event takes place from Sept. 13 to Sept. 22. It seems fitting that in her farewell season, American Idol 2024 will visit each of the judges' hometowns. Perry will be taking Bryan, Richie, and us to Santa Barbara, California. We can't wait!

Don't miss Katy Perry's final season! American Idol season 22 premieres Sunday, Feb. 18, 2024 on ABC and is available to stream the next day on Hulu.