Carrie Underwood Not The First Choice for ‘American Idol’ Judge

Carrie Underwood is a natural fit to join the judging panel on American Idol after Katy Perry‘s departure, but what might surprise fans is that she wasn’t the producers’ first choice.

Despite her deep connection to the show, the network initially pursued another A-list star, Miley Cyrus.

Underwood, a former Idol champion, brings unparalleled experience and humility to the role—qualities that make her an even better long-term option for the franchise.

Keep reading for more details!

Miley Cyrus Was the First Pick to Replace Katy Perry

Behind the scenes at ABC, showrunners originally had their sights set on Miley Cyrus to fill Katy Perry’s shoes. Cyrus, known for her bold persona and chart-topping music, was seen as an exciting prospect by the network. However, there was one significant hurdle—her salary demands.

“Miley was the network and producers’ first pick,” an inside source reveals. “But meeting the financial expectations set by her team was impossible. Topping Katy’s already substantial salary was never an option.”

In contrast, Carrie Underwood accepted a lower salary, reportedly earning half of what Perry was making. Her paycheck is now similar to fellow country star and current judge Luke Bryan, who takes home around $12 million per season.

The salary difference might be significant, but Underwood’s fit with the show goes beyond financials—she’s uniquely qualified to elevate the contestant experience.

Why Carrie Underwood Is the Best Choice for American Idol

Carrie Underwood isn’t just a former contestant; she’s one of American Idol’s greatest success stories.

Since winning Season 4 in 2005, she’s not only dominated the country music scene but also expanded her brand with ventures like her Calia clothing line and Fit52 fitness app.

Her deep appreciation for the show and the opportunity it gave her is evident, making her a compelling and relatable presence on the judging panel.

“Carrie’s humility and connection to the show make her a great fit,” the insider continues. “She didn’t need a Katy-sized paycheck to return to the Idol family. Ego isn’t what drives her, and she’s not in it for the money.”

This humble attitude sets Underwood apart from some of her peers. Having grown up in rural Oklahoma, she brings a grounded, down-to-earth perspective to her role as a judge.

Unlike others, who may approach the job with more glitz and glamor, Carrie connects on a human level with the contestants, understanding their dreams and struggles in ways few others could.

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Underwood’s Career Since American Idol

Since her Idol win, Carrie Underwood has proven time and again that she is more than just a fleeting reality TV star.

She has gone on to release nine studio albums, each more successful than the last.

Her debut album, Some Hearts, went on to become one of the best-selling country albums of all time.

Over the years, she has earned eight Grammy Awards, 16 ACM Awards, and 25 CMT Awards, among countless other accolades.

From selling millions of records to headlining seven major tours, Carrie’s career trajectory has been nothing short of extraordinary.

Aside from her musical success, Carrie has dabbled in acting, with roles in How I Met Your Mother and Soul Surfer.

She’s also launched several business ventures, including her athletic brand, Calia, and her fitness app, Fit52.

Underwood’s versatility, drive, and work ethic are qualities that will no doubt inspire the next generation of Idol contestants.

Her connection to the show, combined with her relentless success, puts her in a position to understand the pressures and challenges the contestants face.

Having navigated those same waters, she can offer guidance and empathy that few others in her position could.

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A Cultural Fit for American Idol’s Audience

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Underwood’s personality and values align perfectly with the core demographic of American Idol.

She appeals to middle-America, where country music reigns and authenticity is highly prized.

Carrie’s wholesome image and humble upbringing make her a cultural fit for the show’s audience, who will appreciate her sincerity and relatability.

Her presence on the panel brings a fresh perspective to the judging dynamic, and her ability to mentor the contestants will likely breathe new life into the franchise.

Underwood’s knowledge of the industry, combined with her lack of ego, makes her someone the contestants can genuinely look up to. They see a success story in her—one that began exactly where they are now.

Carrie Underwood’s Path Since American Idol Win

It’s no exaggeration to say that Carrie Underwood has done it all since her American Idol victory. She has juggled multiple careers as a musician, entrepreneur, actress, and philanthropist, all while balancing her role as a wife and mother.

Here’s a quick look at some of her incredible achievements since winning Idol:

Conclusion

• Though Miley Cyrus may have been the initial pick to replace Katy Perry, it’s clear that Carrie Underwood is the ideal choice for the long haul.
• Her genuine love for the show, unmatched career achievements, and humble approach will resonate with American Idol’s audience in a way that few others could.
• As the show continues to evolve, Underwood’s presence will only make it stronger, more authentic, and more compelling for the next generation of music stars.
• Carrie Underwood is living proof that American Idol is more than just a TV show—it’s a launchpad for extraordinary talent, and her return as a judge completes the circle.

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