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 allegedly making a lot less money to judge 'American Idol' Season 23 than Katy Perry made. Here's what an insider said about the country star's payment.