American Idol Auditions Are Back in NYC! Carrie Underwood Joins the Judges

American Idol Auditions Kick Off in NYC With Carrie Underwood's Debut as Judge

The search for the next American Idol is on, and New York City is the first stop for hopeful singers. Thousands are vying for their shot at stardom, hoping to impress the judges.

This season brings a new addition to the judging panel: Carrie Underwood, the first Idol alum to join the team. Lionel Richie, Luke Bryan, and Katy Perry are back to continue their roles as judges.

Richie commented on the excitement of the auditions: "The energy in New York has always been over the top, but I must say the energy in the room for the first time with Carrie behind the desk was amazing."

Even Ryan Seacrest shared a memorable moment from Underwood's first day on American Idol: "I remember she had said to me that she had never been on a plane before. I asked her if she saw any stars when she got to Hollywood and she said, it's been cloudy."

The chemistry between the judges is already strong, as Luke Bryan put it: "Well, he's Papa Lionel, then Ryan's, like I said, AI Ryan."

American Idol will return next year on ABC, so get ready to tune in and see who will be crowned the next singing sensation.