When Katy Perry announced her departure from "American Idol," Carrie Underwood was the obvious pick to join the judging panel, according to showrunner Megan Michaels Wolflick, saying "all roads led to Carrie.

Former American Idol winner Carrie Underwood isn’t new to the show, but she is new to judging the show’s talent. Her return for Season 23 marks a new chapter for the singer, who achieved massive success after winning Season 4.

Carrie Underwood is making her return to American Idol. After winning season 4 in 2005, she's joining Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie for the singing competition's 23rd season. The country music star is now taking a seat on the other side of the table as a judge—20 years after she took home the prize herself.