Fans have been left very emotional after they were given a first look at Carrie Underwood”s multi-million dollar career move.
Carrie returns to her American Idol but this time as a judge (Image: ABC)
Singer Carrie Underwood is going up in the world, and fans couldn’t be happier.
Nearly two decades after her life-changing win on American Idol in 2005, the queen of county music is set to return to the long-running ABC competition show, but this time not as a contestant, but as a judge.
ABC treated American Idol fans to a glimpse of what the 23rd season will look like with the season four winner as a panel, and social media users simply couldn’t contain their emotions.
In a tear-jerking promo, the network created a montage showcasing Carrie’s journey—from her baby-faced audition back in 2005 to winning it all and now, claiming her seat as a judge.
Her soon-to-be co-judges Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan, as well as host Ryan Seacrest, also made an appearance in the video.
Carrie Underwood during her first American Idol audition in 2005 (Image: ABC)
“Hey, Carrie!” Ryan exclaimed as he and the All Night Long singer joined her on the panel. “I can’t believe it. 2 years ago I was standing on a stage just like this one
“And now you’re sitting here with us,” Lionel added, as Luke gushed: “That’s the power of American Idol!”
Ryan also chimed in, “So, what do you say? Shall we change some lives together?” to which the Remind Me singer exclaimed, “Let’s do this! ”
The promo prompted a huge reaction from fans, with one user @mommyfaria raving: “That’s our girl! Fan since day 1!”
Carrie taking a seat at the iconic American Idol panel (Image: ABC)
Lionel Richie, Luke Bryan and Ryan Seacrest joined Carrie on the panel (Image: ABC)
With a second @deboramkotterman asking: “Why did this make me so emotional,” and fan @austindbruns echoed:”I’m not crying you’re crying.”
A fourth person @treasmith admitted: “I’ve watched this 30 times what is wrong with me,” as @itsadamboreland commented: “CHILLS … I am crying.”
While @christiangraysnow penned: “Y’all didnt have to do the same pink and everything. got me tore TF up over here!!! the nostalgia!” referring to Carrie’s bright pink top she wore for her audition and the similar shade of outfit she wore for the promo video.
And @emily_mariah19 gushed: “And this is when I start watching American Idol again because we KNOW its gonna be good.”
Carrie will reportedly earn an impressive $12 million for her judging debut, a mere sum compared to her predecessor Katy Perry’s $25 million paycheck before she announced her departure last year after a seven-season run.
