With over 20 seasons under its belt, “American Idol” continues to be a fan-favorite reality TV competition show. For season 23, viewers welcomed season 4 winner and undoubtedly one of the show’s biggest success stories, Carrie Underwood, as a judge, sitting alongside fan-favorites Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie.
But now, it looks like another powerhouse “American Idol” winner has her eye on a full-circle moment of her own. She’s ready to shake things up just like Underwood.
‘American Idol’ Winner Jordin Sparks Is Open to Joining the Show as a Judge
GettyJordin Sparks was only 17 years old when she stole the spotlight and won season 6 of “American Idol.” She’s released hit songs like “No Air” and Tattoo,” and most recently, released her fifth studio album, titled “No Restrictions,” in 2024. Now, 35, Sparks says she’s ready for her own full circle moment on the reality TV show, much like Carrie Underwood.
In a new interview with E! News, Sparks revealed that she wouldn’t hesitate to take a seat at the “American Idol” judges’ table.
“Yes — you didn’t even have to finish the question,” she shared. “I think it would be a lot of fun.”
However, Sparks also admitted that she wouldn’t have given such an easy “yes” in the past, explaining that she felt she was “still growing” as an artist.
“I remember getting asked that question a lot right after I won ‘Idol,” Sparks said. “And I would get a little startled, because I was like, ‘I can’t judge people when I’m still growing. I’m still learning.’ I think I did have stuff I probably could have told them.”
The songstress added that she likes to see herself as a “mentor” and help “encourage” up-and-coming singers to explore their artistry. “So, I would love to, if that opportunity ever arose. Put my name in the hat, please.”
All Three ‘American Idol’ Judges From the 2025 Season Will Return
GettyIn August, ABC confirmed, via E! News, that all three judges from season 23 will be back for the new season. That means fans can once again look forward to Luke Bryan, Lionel Richie, and Carrie Underwood (who returns for her second year) at the judges’ table as they cheer on standout talent, cringe at not-so-great auditions, and guide hopeful singers through each intense round.
That same month, all three judges took part in a fun back-to-school announcement to officially confirm their return. In the clip shared on the “American Idol” Instagram page, Bryan shared, “class is back in session,” while Underwood added, “this year, we’re majoring in music as we help launch your dreams.” Richie is then seen saying that all three judges are back “for another amazing season of Idol University.”
Season 23 saw Mississippi native Jamal Roberts winning the show, having beaten out finalists John Foster and Breanna Nix. According to American Songwriter, Roberts’ debut single, a cover of Tom Odell’s song, “Heal,” soared to the No. 1 spot on the Hot Gospel Songs Charts.
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‘American Idol’ Winner Ready to Take Judge’s Seat