Katy Perry's sudden departure from American Idol has Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan concerned about their future on the show.
39-year-old Perry recently revealed her decision to leave the singing competition, framing it as a personal choice.
However, insider information suggests that the "I Kissed A Girl" singer's lack of sensitivity towards contestants had viewers demanding her removal, prompting producers to consider letting her go.
'American Idol's' Future
Recent reports suggest that Lionel Richie, 74, and Luke Bryan, 47, have raised concerns about the alleged actions of veteran host Ryan Seacrest, 49.
According to a source who spoke to the National Enquirer, frustration is mounting towards Seacrest as the two judges believe he has begun discussing the possibility of creating a new roster due to Katy Perry's absence.
In their opinion, Seacrest is perceived as ingratiating himself with the top executives of the show in a self-serving manner to undermine other talents, all in an effort to protect himself.
"They're angry at [Seacrest] and bracing for him to throw them under the bus because he's already started blabbing about how they may need to come up with a fresh new lineup with [Perry] gone."
As moles have revealed, country heartthrob Bryan and R&B icon Richie have amassed nearly $100 million over their seven-year careers.
The looming fear of being cut off from their lucrative endeavors has made them anxious.
"The show's made them richer than ever. But bosses clearly want to liven things up - and maybe they won't stop with replacing only Katy."
"Luke and Lionel feel they deserve a lot more respect and they're not getting love from Ryan, who's cozying up to bosses and making himself look good!"
According to sources familiar with the matter, there are discussions among the team behind "American Idol" about potentially introducing a new face to take over Bryan's spot, possibly a burgeoning country sensation such as Jelly Roll.
Read also: Katy Perry's 'American Idol' Exit: Viewers' Push or Producer Pull? The Real Story Revealed!
Jelly Roll on 'American Idol'
Expressing a desire to scale down his professional obligations for more quality time with his family, the 47-year-old singer behind hits like "Country Girl" is contemplating a shift in priorities.
According to sources, producers are considering Jelly Roll as a potential replacement for Luke Bryan on the show. With Bryan's future on "American Idol" uncertain beyond this season, they have brought Jelly on board to gauge audience response and explore the possibility of him stepping into the mentor role.
The source revealed to Radar Online, "Their only worry is that Jelly is such a sweet guy, he won't have the heart to be brutally honest in critiquing a contestant - but he would instantly make the show hotter and more relevant!"
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