American Idol‘s 22nd season is premiering on Sunday (Feb. 18), marking Katy Perry’s seventh and final season as a judge.
The “Teenage Dream” star revealed that she’s leaving the show on Jimmy Kimmel Live on Monday night (Feb. 12). “I love the show so much,” she told the host, “but I want to go see the world and maybe bring new music.”
She continued, “I think this will probably be my last show, my last season for Idol. 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 has been a judge on the show since 2018, alongside Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie. With a spot on the judges panel now open, we at Billboard are curious as to who will take Perry’s place. Maybe Nicki Minaj can return to the show for the first time since 2013? Or Jennifer Lopez could make her return to the show for the first time in a decade.
Maybe Idol could take on a brand new judge like Miley Cyrus or Shakira, who both already have judging experience from The Voice. Another pop star like Doja Cat or Dua Lipa could also be great options for the show.
Who do you think should replace Katy Perry on the Idol judges panel? Let us know by voting below.