Katy Perry Is Leaving 'American Idol' After Season 22 — 'I Want to Go and See the World'

For years, Katy Perry faced criticism from fans for her harsh comments and opinions on American Idol. But the backlash she received during Season 21 was unprecedented.

The chart-topping pop star was called out several times during the season for her behavior toward certain contestants. Fans called on the network via Twitter to fire the "Wide Awake" crooner for some time.

ABC stayed mum on the topic at the time, but talk persisted that Katy allegedly wanted to exit the show. What's the update on her status with American Idol as of Season 22? Details ahead.

In an Instagram post shared in late July 2023, the show confirmed that the pop star would be back in her judge's seat for the upcoming season (which is also Season 7 for ABC).

"Katy Perry, Luke Bryan, and Lionel Richie will return as American Idol judges along with host Ryan Seacrest for Season 7. Audition NOW!" the post read.

Some fans weren't happy, with many taking to the comments section of the post to show their displeasure with the decision. "Break the contract with Katy Perry please," one such person demanded.

To be fair, many commenters support the choice to bring Katy back, with one such fan urging the star not to listen to negative feedback.

According to an insider who spoke with Daily Mail, the criticism during Season 21 hit Katy hard.

The source told the outlet, "Katy feels like [the producers] threw her under the bus," adding that "getting booed really upset her."

The source continued, "'She has accomplished so much in her career and is now being looked at as a nasty reality show judge."

During Season 21, Katy first made headlines for a comment she made during a contestant's audition.

Sara Beth Liebe, a mom of three, revealed during her audition that she had all of her children before turning 25. After hearing that, Katy claimed that Sara Beth had "been laying on the table too much," a comment that didn't go over well with viewers at home.

Katy was also chided for critiquing contestant Nutsa Buzaladze's outfit instead of her performance. “Listen, one thing that I would like to see from you is not one piece of glitter the next time. I know that is going to be hard," she said, which resulted in her getting booed by the audience during a live episode.

Katy has been a judge on American Idol since Season 16 in 2018. However, the singer revealed in February 2024 that Season 22 will be her last on the show.

During her February 2024 interview on Jimmy Kimmel Live, Katy revealed to the host, "I think this probably will be my last show, my last season for Idol.” She then confirmed in a Feb. 12, 2024, Instagram post that Season 22 would be her last season on American Idol.

The "Roar" singer explained to Jimmy that she has a huge project coming up in September 2024 — Rock in Rio. She also has other projects in the pipeline that she's very excited about.

So, it seems as though Katy's departure from American Idol is driven more by her desire to explore the world and create new music, rather than fans wanting her to leave.

After announcing she won't be returning to American Idol for Season 23, Katy expounded on her exit, saying, “I feel like I need to go out and feel that pulse to my own beat.” She added, “I’m creating space for my new wingspan."

Although Katy won't be in the hot seat come Season 23, she says there's a chance she might return to the show in the future, so fans will just have to sit tight and wait to see.

American Idol Season 22 premieres on Feb. 18, 2024.