Did you know it’s been over 20 years since a shy girl from Oklahoma won the very first season of the famous show? On January 26, 2026, American Idol made history by inviting Carrie Underwood back as a permanent judge. She is the first winner ever to return and lead the search for new stars.
Carrie stands tall next to Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan on the judging panel. She looks very happy to be back where her big dream started so long ago. While the two men joke around behind her, she stays focused and confident. This moment proves to everyone that a normal person can truly become a global superstar through hard work.
If you aren’t watching American Idol on January 26, I don’t want to hear it!
Fans are so excited to see her in this new role as the lead judge. One viewer said she looks like a true boss now. Another person mentioned that it feels like the show has finally come full circle. Everyone seems to agree that her journey from a quiet student to a music legend is a beautiful story of success.
Carrie knows exactly how nervous singers feel because she once stood in their shoes. Now she is sharing her best secrets for handling fame with the new contestants. She tells them about a special trick she uses to stay happy while being famous.
Post and drink, got it
The trick is called the Post and Ghost, where you share your art but do not read the comments. Carrie says she does not listen to people yelling at the clouds or saying mean things. Luke Bryan joked that he usually posts and drinks instead. Carrie laughed and told him he can drink, but he should not drink and post.
Carrie Underwood is a great example of a kind and strong leader. She has eight Grammys, but she still remembers her simple roots in Oklahoma. Her voice and her story continue to inspire millions of people around the world every day. Follow Carrie Underwood on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube to see her help find the next big star.