Earlier this week, former American Idol contestant Jennifer Hudson returned to the show as a guest mentor and judge on Disney Night. Her appearance has prompted some fans to want Hudson on the show as a permanent judge, replacing Carrie Underwood.
American Idol Fans Want Jennifer Hudson as Judge
During Monday’s new episode of American Idol Season 24, Jennifer Hudson mentored the show’s Top 9 contestants at Disneyland before sitting on the panel as a guest judge alongside Lionel Richie, Carrie Underwood, and Luke Bryan.
Hudson brought plenty of personality and positive feedback to the table, even throwing her shoes at a few of the contestants — the ultimate compliment, as those who saw her as a coach on The Voice will know.
Some fans online loved Hudson’s recent appearance so much that they want to see her as a permanent judge — potentially replacing Underwood. As one person wrote on X (formerly Twitter), “Can we swap Carrie for Jennifer Hudson permanently, thanks.”
Someone else expressed a similar sentiment, posting, “How about Jennifer stay, and Carrie goes!” Another fan wrote that they thought Hudson was a “big improvement over Carrie,” expressing a desire to see her on the panel next season.
SEE ALSO: JENNIFER HUDSON REMINISCES ABOUT HER TIME ON ‘AMERICAN IDOL’ AHEAD OF GUEST JUDGING
Could Carrie Underwood Be Leaving the Show?
Former American Idol winner Carrie Underwood is currently in her second season as a judge on the show. Her performance on the panel hasn’t gone over well with everyone, as some viewers dislike her approach while others have criticized her for performing at Donald Trump’s 2025 inauguration.
According to the U.S. Sun, Underwood might not be back on the panel next season, along with longtime judge Luke Bryan. A source shared, “Carrie and Luke’s heart don’t seem to be in it anymore. Especially Luke, he seems like he’s just going through the motions.”
“Carrie seems grateful for the opportunity and is polite to everyone, but you can tell she doesn’t fully want to be there,” the source continued.
What do you think? Should Carrie Underwood be replaced by Jennifer Hudson on the American Idol panel? Let us know in the comments below.
