20 Years Later, Carrie Underwood Is Back On American Idol 

Carrie Underwood shared an emotional video showcasing her walking into American Idol for the first time as a contestant and then as a judge. Her full circle moment was filled with grateful tears.

Underwood won American Idol in 2005 and has had an illustrious career in country music since then. The singer has won 8 Grammy awards, 12 Billboard Music Awards, and 17 American Music awards. She has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and is inducted into the Grand Ole Opry.

Underwood has 28 No.1 hits, with her first being her debut single, “Inside Your Heaven.” Watch her first No.1 hit below. 

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Carrie Underwood’s Full-Circle Moment On American Idol

The singer could credit her acclaim to her time on American Idol. In a full circle moment, Underwood signed on to judge American Idol’s 23rd season, which airs in March. The “Before He Cheats” singer will be alongside judges Lionel Ritchie, Luke Bryan, and host Ryan Secrest.

A new video has been released on social media, showcasing her first appearance as a judge. She wears the same shade of pink that she wore during her initial audition, paying a subtle homage to that memorable day. The video intercuts between her moments as a judge and her experiences as a contestant, tugging at the heartstrings of everyone watching.

During the video, Underwood said, “I can’t believe it. 20 years ago, I was standing on a stage just like this one.”

Fans could not get enough of the monumental moment, and they commented:

“ok, who’s cuttin’ onions?”

“I could cry. I am crying.”

“The fact she’s wearing the same color just makes this more special & emotional.”

“Haven’t watched in YEARS. Def watching in 2025!”

“I’ve never been more excited!! I remember voting for @carrieunderwood every single week and crying during the finale when she finally won! Made me fall more in love with the @americanidol mission!”

“She was the only one I ever watched and immediately said, she is winning this season!”

Watch the moving video below.