American Idol judges Katy Perry and Lionel Richie will be temporarily replaced on the May 7 episode, and their substitutes are two of music’s biggest superstars. Katy, Lionel, and Luke Bryan have served on the American Idol judging panel since ABC revived the show for season 16 in 2018. They have since discovered some of the best new talent in America, including winners Maddie Poppe, Laine Hardy, Just Sam, Chayce Beckham, and Noah Thompson.
American Idol season 21 has some of the most extraordinarily talented singers that the show has ever seen. On May 7, the contestants will be narrowed down from the Top 8 to the Top 5, but they will not be judged by Katy and Lionel. Here’s the special reason why these two judges won’t appear, and who is taking their place.
Katy Perry & Lionel Richie Will Miss American Idol Due To The Coronation
On the May 1 episode of American Idol, which featured the Judges’ Song Contest, host Ryan Seacrest announced that Katy and Lionel will be traveling to the United Kingdom to perform at King Charles III’s coronation. Therefore, they will be unavailable to appear live on American Idol on Sunday, May 7. However, they will check in live from Windsor Castle during the episode.
Alanis Morissette Will Guest Mentor & Judge American Idol
On May 7, Alanis Morissette will serve as the mentor for the American Idol Top 8 contestants. The finalists, Iam Tongi, Wé Ani, Colin Stough, Megan Danielle, Zachariah Smith, Warren Peay, Haven Madison, and Oliver Steele will sing their versions of Alanis’ songs. She will also be one of the guest judges and perform on the episode. Alanis appeared in a video in which she said that she can’t wait to see the contestants next week.
Ed Sheeran Joins Alanis & Luke Bryan On American Idol
In addition to Alanis, Ed Sheeran will join Luke at the judges’ table and also serve as a mentor. In a video, Ed revealed that this is the first time that he’s done this on American Idol. He said that he’s mostly looking forward to meeting all the contestants and talking through life and music. Ryan explained that the finalists will be teaming up to perform special duets of Ed’s songs. Ed will also perform his current hit, “Eyes Closed.”
Although Katy and Lionel certainly will be missed, it’s very exciting to have Alanis and Ed on the judging panel. Their songs are iconic, and the contestants will have a blast putting their own spins on these classic tunes. It will also be good for them to have a new perspective from Alanis and Ed as they’re mentored and judged by them. American Idol season 21 just keeps getting more and more thrilling.
American Idol airs Sundays and Mondays at 8 p.m. EDT on ABC.
Source: American Idol/YouTube
