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The coveted singing reality show, American Idol, first premiered on June 11, 2002. The series launched the careers of multiple artists who have not only become staple figures in the music industry but have also won several awards and accolades. Grammy Award winners like Kelly Clarkson, Carrie Underwood, and Jennifer Hudson are some of those who rose to fame after the show.
Through the years, the show has boasted a range of renowned musicians and artists as its judges. Each has lent their expertise and guidance to the contestants to help them polish their skills and sustain the journey on the show. In addition to mentoring the aspiring singers, the judges also formed emotional connections with them, taking their achievements as personal victories.
From pop artist, Katy Perry to hip-hop legend, Nicki Minaj, American Idol's judging panel has been graced by musicians from multiple genres. Here is a list of all the judges who have played a pivotal role in turning the contestants' dreams into reality.
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14 judges appeared on American Idol through seasons 1 to 22
1) Randy Jackson (Seasons 1-12)
Randy joined American Idol as a judge when it first premiered in 2002. He collaborated with the series for twelve years, becoming the longest-serving mentor in the show's history. He was popularized for using catchphrases like "it's a 'no' for me, dawg" and "pitchy" while reviewing performances.
In 2021, Randy made his reality TV return by serving as the pianist on Fox's competition show, Name That Tune.
2) Simon Cowell (Seasons 1-9)
Simon Cowell joined American Idol in 2002 and stayed for nine seasons before leaving the series to judge other shows. He transformed the careers of multiple artists with his expertise and industry knowledge.
Besides being a well-known mentor, Simon saw success as an English record executive, producer, and talent scout. He has also served as a judge on Pop Idol, The X Factor UK, and America's Got Talent.
3) Paula Abdul (Seasons 1-8)
Paula Abdul was among the original judges, alongside Simon and Randy. She graced American Idol for eight seasons before leaving to coach other dance competition shows including Live to Dance, So You Think You Can Dance, and The Masked Dancer.
Before American Idol, Paula used to be a singer, dancer, and performer, renowned for choreographing Janet Jackson's music videos. Some of her singles, including Straight Up, Opposites Attract, and Forever Your Girl, topped the Billboard Hot 100 charts at that time.
4) Kara DioGuardi (Season 8-9)
Kara DioGuardi joined the American Idol judging panel in 2009. Before appearing on the singing competition series, she had a successful singing career while also serving as the producer and executive producer of talent development at Warner Bros. Records.
After leaving Idol, Kara continued to work as a producer, collaborating with renowned artists like Christina Aguilera, Britney Spears, and more.
5) Ellen DeGeneres (Season 9)
Ellen appeared on American Idol in 2010, replacing Paula Abdul. The renowned stand-up comedian and media personality served on the judging panel for only one season. After her one-season stint, she resumed hosting her infamous talk show The Ellen DeGeneres Show.
6) Steven Tyler (Seasons 10-11)
Season 10 of American Idol saw Steven Tyler, the lead singer of the rock band Aerosmith, replace Simon Cowell on the judging panel. He guided the aspiring singers alongside Randy for two seasons. Known for his up-tempo tracks, Dream On and Sweet Emotion are among Steven's evergreen hits.
7) Jennifer Lopez (Seasons 10-11 and 13-15)
Jennifer Lopez debuted on American Idol in season 10 alongside Steven. She judged seasons 10 and 11, and later seasons 13-15. Renowned for her acting and singing careers, Jennifer shared her expertise with singers, helping them find their footing in the entertainment industry.
Besides being celebrated for her films like Selena, The Wedding Planner, and Monster-in-Law, Jennifer is also known for having multiple chartbusters, including Let's Get Loud, Jenny From the Block, and Dance Again.
8) Mariah Carey (Season 12)
2012 saw Grammy-winning singer-songwriter, Mariah Carey join American Idol's judging panel. The celebrated singer had previously appeared in season 7 as a guest mentor for the contestants. Known for her vocal range and decorated music career, Mariah shared her expertise with aspiring singers during her one-year stint on Idol.
Some of Mariah's popular songs include Emotions, Without You, and the holiday hit, All I Want for Christmas Is You.
9) Nicki Minaj (Season 12)
Nicki Minaj debuted on American Idol in season 12. The Super Bass singer was popularly known for giving nicknames to the participating contestants.
The hip-hop artist has had an accomplished career with multiple successful albums under her belt. Pink Friday, Pink Friday: Roman Reloaded, and Pink Friday 2 are deemed the rapper's most celebrated studio albums.
Besides her hits including Starships, Anaconda, and Chun-Li, Nicki also released chartbuster collaborations with Justin Bieber, Jessie J, and Ariana Grande.
10) Keith Urban (Seasons 12-15)
The Grammy-winning country artist joined the judging panel of American Idol for season 12 and stayed until season 15, guiding the contestants through the competition. In 2023, Keith returned to the show as a mentor for the season 21 finale.
Besides American Idol, Keith also judged the Australian variant of The Voice in 2011.
11) Harry Connick Jr. (Seasons 13-15)
Harry Connick Jr. became a judge for American Idol on season 13, sitting alongside Keith Urban and Jennifer Lopez. He had previously appeared during season 9 as a mentor for the participants.
Renowned for composing the original soundtrack for the 1989 film When Harry Met Sally, Harry has had a successful career in music. Besides music, the Grammy winner also delved into acting with credits appearing in NBC's Will & Grace, and Independence Day among others.
12) Katy Perry (Seasons 16-22)
In 2018, Katy Perry joined the coaching panel of American Idol, alongside two new faces, Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan. The pop star had previously appeared on the show as a guest judge during season 9.
During an episode of Jimmy Kimmel Live! in February 2024, the California Gurls and Dark Horse singer announced that she was leaving American Idol after serving seven seasons on the judging panel.
"No, I love the show so much but I wanna go and see the world and maybe bring new music," she said.
13) Lionel Richie (Seasons 16-present)
Grammy winner, Lionel Richie has been a part of American Idol since his debut in 2018. As lead singer of the Commodores, Lionel was considered an icon in soul and pop music, often placed alongside music legends such as Stevie Wonder and Michael Jackson.
Endless Love, Dancing on the Ceiling, and Hello are among Lionel's biggest hits.
14) Luke Bryan (Seasons 16-present)
Luke Bryan sat alongside Lionel and Katy on the American Idol judging panel. The country artist has had over 50 awards throughout his career, with 23 chart-topping hits. Do I, That's My Kind of Night, and Rain Is a Good Thing are some of Luke's most-streamed hits.
American Idol season 23 is scheduled to release on ABC on March 9, 2025.
