Carrie Underwood Returns to American Idol as Judge with New Contestants

NORTH CAROLINA (WTVD) — Carrie Underwood, a former winner of “American Idol,” has returned to her roots as a judge on the latest season of the popular reality competition. The season premiered on March 9, 2025, and features Underwood alongside judges Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan, with Ryan Seacrest continuing his role as the host.

This Sunday, March 16, two aspiring singers from North Carolina will take the stage to audition. Josh King from Charlotte is scheduled to perform for the judges, as well as Granite Falls native Carson Webb. Both are eager to impress the panel and advance in the competition.

Ahead of his audition, Carson Webb expressed excitement and nerves, reflecting the high stakes of the show. “It’s a dream come true to be able to perform on this stage,” he said. “I can’t wait to show what I’ve got.”

Carrie Underwood, who won “American Idol” in its fourth season, shared her thoughts on returning to the show that launched her career. “They’re probably going to get sick of like, ‘when I was on the show,’” she chuckled. “For the past 20 years, I’ve been blessed enough to come back and be a part of it, be a mentor, perform. This is home.”

<p viewers can catch King and Webb’s auditions on ABC at 8 p.m. EST on March 16. With Underwood’s return and talented hopefuls from North Carolina, anticipation for this season is running high.