Luke Bryan, the beloved country star and American Idol judge, has sparked speculation about his future on the iconic singing competition. In a recent interview with Billboard, Bryan revealed that uncertainty looms over whether he and fellow judge Lionel Richie will return for the show’s next season.

“It’s been interesting,” Bryan shared, reflecting on the changes expected for the upcoming season of American Idol. “It’s been something Disney been really tightlipped about with me and Lionel and [host] Ryan [Seacrest]. We currently haven’t heard what the story is on who’s coming back, and if Lionel and I are coming back.”

Bryan emphasized that Disney is in the process of deliberating the show’s direction, leaving him and Richie in a holding pattern until decisions are made. However, if they do return, Bryan hinted at potential new faces joining the judges’ panel, dropping names of A-list celebrities who have been in discussions.

“I think Pink has been in the talks, Miley Cyrus has been in the talks, Meghan Trainor has been in the talks,” Bryan disclosed, suggesting a range of talented artists being considered to fill the void left by Katy Perry, who recently departed after season 22.

 

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Regarding potential successors to Perry, Bryan acknowledged the challenge of finding someone to match her impact on the show. “Katy was really perfect for that job, and I think they’re just working real hard to find somebody that can really come in and do the job that Katy did,” he commented.

Both Pink and Meghan Trainor have expressed their openness to the role, with Trainor describing it as her “ultimate bucket list dream come true.” Pink, however, expressed reservations, citing her concern about potentially hurting contestants’ feelings.

Reflecting on Perry’s departure, Bryan acknowledged her unique contribution to American Idol. “I hope it’s someone fearless,” Perry said earlier this year about her potential successor. “I hope it’s someone that doesn’t mince their words, maybe someone a little polarizing just like myself.”

As fans eagerly await news on the judges’ lineup for the next season, Bryan’s candid remarks have added to the speculation surrounding the show’s future dynamics. Whether he and Richie return or not, it’s clear that American Idol is gearing up for yet another exciting chapter in its storied history.

Stay tuned as developments unfold regarding the future judges of American Idol and the next phase of this beloved singing competition.