Pop star Katy Perry shocked fans by revealing that she will be leaving “American Idol” after 7 years as a judge on the reality singing competition. The singer teased the news on her Instagram by captioning her post, “Let’s play two truths and a lie: 1. I beat @usher at Monopoly Deal. 2. I’m headlining Rock in Rio this September. 3. This is my last season on @americanidol. Tune in to @jimmykimmellive to find out.” During Perry’s appearance on “Jimmy Kimmel Live,” the 39-year-old singer confirmed that the upcoming season of “American Idol” will be her last. “I think this probably will be my last show, my last season for ‘Idol,'” Perry said. She said the other judges of the show, Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie, did not officially know that she would be leaving the show. “Well, they’ll find out tonight,” Perry said. “I’ve been in the studio for awhile so they figured something is up.” She also revealed that she would be performing at a major music festival, Rock in Rio in Brazil, this September. “It’s really exciting,” Perry said. The pop star recently wrapped up a two-year Las Vegas concert residency in November, saying that she is looking forward to travelling and putting out new music. “I love the show so much, but I want to go and see the world and maybe bring new music,” Perry said. “It’s going to be a very, very exciting year for all pop star girlies.”

Perry has found herself in hot water more than once for her comments while on the show. In 2022, Perry was accused of mocking a contestant’s faith after finding out his parents were religious and did not approve of the music is sings and listens to. Perry responded asking what “Satan music” he would be singing for them. Although the contestant did not make it through, many people found her comments to be offensive. Last year, a contestant from “American Idol” shared his experience on the show three years prior, recounting a not-so-good experience with Perry. Adriel Carrion, who was 18 at the time, was auditioning for season 19 with a fellow contestant.  where they announced that they had prepared a “sweet” duet saying, “We’re going to do something sweet for you. ” Perry reacted with wide eyes saying, “not ‘Watermelon Sugar.’” Referring to the popular Harry Styles song that the duo had insinuated they were about to sing. “I can’t take another ‘Watermelon Sugar,’” said the “California Gurls” singer. Carrion shared that the comment still haunts him to this day. Last season, Perry was under fire for allegedly “mom-shaming” a contestant after revealing she had three kids at the age of 25. Liebe said, “Bless, you guys are my favorite. I have three kids.” She added, “If Katy lays on the table, I think I’m going to pass out.” Then, Perry quipped, “Honey, you’ve been lying on the table too much.”