Katy Perry Names Perfect Singer to Replace Her as 'American Idol' Judge

Katy Perry Chooses Her 'American Idol' Replacement
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Katy Perry personally handpicked the musician she would want to take over her role on American Idol.

After six seasons on Idol, Perry will take a bow and leave her seat on the singing competition show. Her previous announcement has led to speculations about the musicians who could replace her -- though she herself has been eyeing someone.

Katy Perry Wants a Particular Musician to Replace Her

Perry spoke with E! News regarding the musician she would want to see join the judges' table with Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie.

"I gotta say Jelly Roll was crazy when he came on the show. I was convinced at anything he said," she said, adding, "He could run for president, he could be my pastor, I might go back to church for him. He could sell me anything ... To have any of these guys plus Jelly on the show would be amazing. I love you, Jelly!"

The "Bottle and Mary Jane" singer appeared on the April 8 episode of American Idol as a guest mentor. He coached the top 24 contestants in Hawaii and gave them positive advice.

After his appearance, Jelly Roll told Billboard how life-changing the show is for the contestants.

"Even if they go on and don't have music careers, they have this story forever and I felt it on them. I took away the spirit of genuine happiness to be where you are, because it happens so fast that sometimes you don't realize how special a moment it is," he said.

While it remains unconfirmed who will take on her role, Perry said she wanted her successor to be straightforward and a "truth teller."

"American Idol" Producers Wanted Taylor Swift or Jennifer Lopez

Before Perry mentioned Jelly Roll, a source revealed to the Daily Mail that the American Idol producers were considering Jennifer Lopez and Taylor Swift.

"A return from the past is in the cards," the insider explained. "J.Lo will be asked to come back. When people come back, things work...people like nostalgia, and people like Jen. It would be a big get to get her back."

Lopez previously served as a judge during Seasons 10, 11, 13 and 15.

Swift was also linked to the gig, with the insider saying she would be offered the job.

Tags
American Idol, Katy Perry, Jelly Roll, Jennifer Lopez
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