A collage of Meghan Trainor and Katy Perry on red carpets.

Meghan Trainor Wants Katy Perry's Spot As Judge On 'American Idol'

Home / Entertainment / Meghan Trainor Wants Katy Perry's Spot As Judge On 'American Idol'

By Afouda Bamidele on June 5, 2024 at 2:15 PM EDT

Meghan Trainor has a new goal in mind — to become the next panelist on "American Idol."

The "All About That Bass" hitmaker recently revealed her interest in taking over the reins from Katy Perry following her retirement as a judge in the singing competition.

Meghan Trainor is no stranger to "American Idol;" however, Katy Perry has someone else in mind as her successor.

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All About Meghan Trainor's 'Ultimate Bucket List Dream'

Meghan Trainor was seen outside the Christian Siriano Runway show.
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Meghan shared her desire for the "American Idol" position during a recent interview with her husband, Daryl Sabara, and her brother, Ryan Trainor. Her beau cued her confession about the post by noting that famous figures saw her as Perry's possible replacement.

"Wait, I got one, Meghan. I hear a lot of people like Luke Bryan and Ryan Seacrest are saying that they would love for you to be a judge on 'American Idol.' Would you be interested?" Daryl asked, to which Meghan responded:

"There's nothing I want more in life than to be a judge on 'American Idol.' That is my ultimate bucket list dream come true. Please, please consider me [laughs] on your show. Please, 'American Idol!' Please! I'm ready. Alright, yeah, I would love to."

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Ever the supportive husband, Daryl applauded her declaration, adding: "That was good. That was good." Meanwhile, Meghan, per ET, jokingly replied, "That was my pitch."

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Luke Bryan & Ryan Seacrest Want Meghan Trainor On 'American Idol'

Meghan Trainor at City Of Hope's Spirit Of Life 2019 Gala
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As stated, Meghan is no stranger to "American Idol" as she participated as a singing coach on the show's past season. Her expertise seemingly impressed the likes of  Luke Bryan and Ryan Seacrest, who name-dropped her as Perry's potential replacement.

When asked about Meghan's chances for the judge's seat, Bryan said, "I think Meghan's always been real fun. You know, that's kinda been her brand, to have fun. [She's] real witty, so certainly."

Seacrest echoed similar sentiments, praising the singer by saying, "She was very good. Meghan is a super talent, too, and she's got a great sense of humor. She's fun, and she's spontaneous."

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Perry exited the show after seven fantastic seasons, opening the position for the next prestigious judge. While "American Idol" showrunners are yet to announce her replacement, the "Roar" singer has a specific candidate in mind.

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Katy Perry Mentions Her Potential 'American Idol' Replacement

Jelly Roll at Michael Rubin's Fanatics Super Bowl Party
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In April, The Blast reported that Perry was leaving "American Idol" after season 22 and had name-dropped the artist she wanted to act as her replacement. Suggesting a breakout country superstar, the 39-year-old said:

"I gotta say Jelly Roll was crazy when he came on the show. He could run for president, he could be my pastor, I might go back to church for him. He could sell me anything."

Perry added, "So I love him. And to have any of these guys plus Jelly on the show would be amazing. I love you, Jelly!" Although she wanted the country singer, the former judge did not mind anyone could embody the role, preferably by her wishes

The 'Dark Horse' Singer Wants Her Replacement To Have These Qualities

Katy Perry is seen smiling at the 2022 MET Gala
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Regardless of who eventually took over her role, Perry stressed that she hoped they were candid and outspoken. "I want a truth teller. I want someone who is not afraid to tell the truth in a graceful way," she explained.

Additionally, Perry wanted her replacement to have the stomach for criticism and the ability to ignore negative comments. In her words: "Just someone who has a strong sense of self, who listens to their intuition."

The powerhouse vocalist confirmed her decision to leave "American Idol" on April 12, confessing that her tenure as a judge had been deeply fulfilling. However, it was time to make space for other priorities.

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Meghan Trainor Isn't The Only Celebrity Eyeing Perry's Seat

Jordin Sparks at the 36th Annual Footwear News Achievement Awards
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Months before Trainor announced her interest as Perry's replacement, The Blast shared that an "American Idol" alum was eyeing the position. Jordin Sparks, who won the show's sixth season at 17, declared her interest on X, writing:

"Oh, hiiii @AmericanIdol —I hear a seat opened up at the judge's table! I'm putting my name in the hat!"

Sparks' tweet generated positive responses from fans, who happily supported her possible return to the singing competition. "I would actually watch it if you were a judge," someone penned.

"This is a perfect choice. She can guide them through something she's experienced! Maybe a new star will be discovered.. like the good old days!"Another supporter echoed, while a third chimed: "This would be a sickening comeback."

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