Kelly Clarkson Reveals the Real Reason She Won't Replace Katy Perry on 'American Idol'

Kelly Clarkson has decided not to return to the show that catapulted her to fame.

While the Emmy award-winning could have effortlessly replaced Katy Perry as a judge on American Idol, the singing competition show does not align with her current plans.

"No. No. I can't do that, only because I promised my kids. I was like, 'I want to be there as much as I possibly can," shared the mom-of-two as she made her way down the red carpet at the prestigious 51st annual Daytime Emmy Awards.

She further told Entertainment Tonight, "And it would put me in LA, and that's why I had to quit The Voice, which I love that team. And I miss them so much."

Early this year, Perry revealed her decision to step down from her role on the long-running television show on ABC.

In a candid conversation on the Jimmy Kimmel Live, via CBS, the "Roar" singer shared, "I believe this upcoming season of Idol will be my final one."

"I mean I love Idol so much. It's connected me with the heart of America, but I feel like I need to go out and feel that pulse to my own beat, you what I'm saying, Jimmy?"

In 2022, Clarkson pondered her journey from a young woman hailing from a small village to achieving fame as one of the nation's top musicians.

Recalling the pivotal moment two decades ago, she shared, "20 years ago today I won American Idol and it forever changed the course of my life."

The "Since U Been Gone" singer added, "That moment was the door that opened up so much access and opportunity, and created partnerships that I will be grateful for all of my days. The family and friendships I have created one these 20 years in music and TV are priceless to me."

"We only get so many trips around the sun and while I am proud and feel abundantly blessed of the successes and failures that I have learned from, I am most proud and grateful for those friends that have become family, and for their arms that have held me when I needed It and their hearts that listened to me when I felt lost. Without them I would not be where I am. I would probably not be here at all."

Reports have surfaced that American Idol has yet to find a replacement judge after Perry stepped down from the show, leaving fans and industry insiders in suspense about the show's future.

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Kelly Clarkson, Katy Perry