Bosses of the long-running singing competition show are allegedly feuding as they are trying to find the replacement for the 'Dark Horse' singer, who recently shared that season 22 will be her last.
- Feb 17, 2024
AceShowbiz - After Katy Perry announced her departure from "American Idol" after this season, executive producers are debating who will replace the singer as one of the judges. According to a new report, the bosses are feuding as some are leaning to Miley Cyrus.
A source told The Sun that ABC is eyeing several superstars for the next season with Miley being the frontrunner. Some honchos, however, didn't think that the "Flowers" hitmaker was the right choice for their "family-friendly" show.
"They are looking at several options on how to replace Katy," an insider spilled to the news outlet. Some execs aren't convinced that the Grammy winner is the right fit compared to other talented and "safe" choices. "Names like Jennifer Lopez and Shania Twain... are in the frame because they have worked on the show before and are 'safe' faces, but there is a push for Miley," the source added.
The insider went on noting, "Several producers feel she would be 'perfect' to judge the show and get headlines like Katy. She is a younger star with an audience that has grown up with her as Hannah Montana and is a celebrated pop star in her own right."
The source added that the "casting drama" was fueled with Miley's controversial ways. "Some senior figures at ABC have concerns about the risque and open nature of Miley saying or doing something which is not necessarily family-friendly," the insider continued. "The production team is inclusive and LGBTQ+ friendly, but Miley is very outspoken and always herself. Of course, ABC sees itself as America's family network, so they would not want to bring division to the audience."
It's also noted that some bosses are still hoping that Katy will stay. "While publicly Katy is saying she is leaving the show, there is nothing stopping her from changing her mind," the source added. "What could be better than her doing the season and then deciding to carry on in some capacity - if the money deal is right? American Idol has not had this much coverage and chat in a long time."
Katy announced that season 22 of "American Idol" would be her last in the February 11 episode of "Jimmy Kimmel Live!". "This fall, in September, I'm going to be doing this huge music festival in Brazil called Rock in Rio... so I think this will probably be my last season for 'Idol'," the "Fireworks" hitmaker added.
The mom of one went on to say, "I mean, I love 'Idol' so much. It's connected me with the heart of America, but I need to feel that pulse of my own beat." When asked about how fellow judges Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie reacted to her departure, Katy simply said, "Well, they'll find out tonight!"
