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.

Returning judges Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie are joined by country music star Carrie Underwood for this season of American Idol, which airs Sunday, March 9 on ABC at 8/7c.