Carrie Underwood, the season 4 winner of American Idol, returned to the show. The Grammy winner will replace Katy Perry on the judges' panel. In the image Lionel Richie, Carrie Underwood, and Luke Bryan judging the 1st episode of American Idol Season 23.
Carrie Underwood, the season 4 winner of American Idol, returned to the show. The Grammy winner will replace Katy Perry on the judges' panel. In the image Lionel Richie, Carrie Underwood, and Luke Bryan judging the 1st episode of American Idol Season 23.
American Idol Season 23 has kicked off, but instead of solely focusing on finding the next big star, the spotlight is also on a familiar face—Carrie Underwood.
The country music sensation, who won Season 4 and went on to claim eight Grammy Awards, has now returned as the show’s first-ever alum-turned-judge. Taking over from Katy Perry, Underwood joins Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie in the hunt for fresh talent. Sunday’s premiere made sure to welcome her back with a bang, showcasing her versatility as a singer.
Meet "Jukebox Carrie"
As the trio made their way through auditions, Bryan and Richie made an exciting discovery—Underwood can sing just about anything. From Korn to George Strait to Bell Biv DeVoe, she matched every contestant’s energy, earning the playful nickname “Jukebox Carrie.”
With auditions rolling for the next few weeks, let’s dive into some of the standout performances from Episode 1!
A Backstreet Boy’s Son Steals the Show
Baylee Littrell, son of Backstreet Boys member Brian Littrell, performs on the March 10 episode of American Idol.' Disney/Eric McCandless
A Musical Legacy Lives On
Carrie Underwood immediately sensed something familiar about 21-year-old Baylee Littrell. Turns out, he’s the son of Backstreet Boys star Brian Littrell!
Baylee, who grew up opening for his dad’s legendary boyband, admitted that stepping into his father’s world was intimidating. "Following in my dad’s footsteps is scary," he confessed. "His career is one of the most extraordinary in music history."
But Brian saw things differently. "I’ve always told everybody he’s ten times more talented than I ever was," he proudly shared.
A Bold Song Choice & a Surprise Duet
Rather than sticking to the Backstreet Boys' signature sound, Baylee performed an original song, Waiting on Myself to Die. His raw lyrics and acoustic guitar performance struck a chord with the judges.
To top it off, they requested a special duet. Brian joined his son for a heartfelt performance, harmonizing beautifully in the chorus. The judges were moved, and with three enthusiastic "yeses," Baylee secured his ticket to Hollywood. Brian, overwhelmed with pride, was left in tears.
A 17-Year-Old Sensation Deserves a Fast Pass
Isaiah Misailegalu auditioned on Season 23, Episode 1, of American Idol. Disney/Eric McCandless
A Star in the Making
Isaiah Misailegalu isn’t just a high school senior from Las Vegas—he’s also a football captain, an honor student, and president of his school's Polynesian club. But his biggest talent? Singing.
Performing Donny Hathaway’s A Song For You with his Uncle Luigi on guitar, Isaiah delivered a performance that could easily go viral.
Carrie Underwood was in disbelief. “It sounds like you’ve been doing this forever. You made it sound easy, and it’s not. So well done, you liar,” she teased.
Lionel Richie took it a step further: "You just borrowed Donny’s song, but that’s your song now." The judges sent him through to Hollywood without hesitation.
Carrie Underwood Gets Emotional Over a Toddler
Breanna Nix auditioned on Season 23, Episode 1 of American Idol. Disney/Eric McCandless
A Heartwarming Moment
Carrie Underwood isn’t usually a crier, but 25-year-old Breanna Nix changed that.
The stay-at-home mom from Texas auditioned with Jesus, Take the Wheel, one of Underwood’s biggest hits. But what stole the show? Her toddler, Emerson, who fell asleep in Underwood’s arms mid-performance!
The moment was so touching that Carrie teared up. Meanwhile, Luke Bryan took over babysitting duties, cradling the sleeping toddler.
With a whispered vote to avoid waking the little one, Breanna earned her golden ticket to Hollywood.
Who’s Heading to Hollywood?
The judges handed out golden tickets generously in Episode 1. Here’s a list of the contestants moving forward:
- Kolbi Jordan
- Breanna Nix
- Crews Wright
- Isaiah Misailegalu
- Kam’ron Smith
- Insite
- Baylee Littrell
- Lillie Zitlaly Rhoden
- Shane Dan Turner
- Pat Johnson
- Ché
- Gabby Simone
- Ian Ward
- Abi Bowen
- Slater Nalley
Who Snagged the Coveted Platinum Ticket?
Introduced in 2022, the platinum ticket allows a contestant to skip the first round of Hollywood Week. Only a few lucky singers receive this golden opportunity each season.
Kolbi Jordan, a 26-year-old powerhouse from Tulsa, kicked off the season in style. Her stunning rendition of Epiphany (I’m Leaving) by Chrisette Michele wowed the judges.
The season’s first platinum ticket winner, Kolbi Jordan. Disney/Eric McCandless
Not only did Lionel Richie call her idol, Patti LaBelle, on the spot, but she also got an unexpected chance to perform at an NFL game!
After impressing a stadium of nearly 70,000 football fans, Kolbi’s golden ticket was upgraded to a platinum one. Talk about making an entrance!
What’s Next?
With the first round of auditions wrapped up, more incredible performances are on the way. Will Carrie Underwood continue to steal the spotlight? Or will a new Idol emerge?
Stay tuned for more jaw-dropping moments in the weeks ahead!
"American Idol" airs Sunday nights on ABC, with episodes available to stream on Hulu the next day.
