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Carrie Underwood said she’s “not” OK after an emotional audition on American Idol.
Underwood is joining the competition show as a judge 20 years after her own Idol victory that launched her career. In a new promo for the upcoming season, Underwood joins Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan (and longtime host Ryan Seacrest) to watch Idol hopefuls deliver stunning performances in hopes of earning a golden ticket to Hollywood. The Denim & Rhinestones star appeared to hold back tears during a heartfelt moment. Bryan reached an arm around his fellow country artist as he asked, “you OK over there?” Underwood replied, “I’m not!”
“This show is for people that have the talent, have the dream, and they just need a chance,” the 2005 American Idol champion said.
Underwood, who joins the show after former judge Katy Perry’s exit, recently shared a a throwback photo from her own audition. She paired it with a side-by-side photo of her highly-anticipated return to the show, color-coordinating with her 21-year-old self. Underwood performed “I Can’t Make You Love Me” by Bonnie Raitt when she auditioned in St. Louis, Missouri.
American Idol viewers can catch preview of the upcoming season airing after the Oscars, which starts at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT on ABC on March 2. The new season of American Idol will premiere on March 9 on ABC, and will be available to stream the following day on Hulu.
