Here’s How Katy Perry Feels About Carrie Underwood Taking Over as ‘American Idol’ Judge

Katy Perry feels confident in the future of American Idol, even if she’s no longer a part of the show.

The pop star shared how she really feels about Carrie Underwood replacing her as a judge on the long-running competition series, telling People on Thursday (Jan. 30) she thinks her former post is in good hands.

“She was born on that show,” Perry said of the “Before He Cheats” singer. “I think she knows how to steer it.”

The “Woman’s World” singer’s comments come about six months after it was announced that Underwood would be taking over her seat on the judge’s panel, which is also comprised of Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan. Perry announced her departure a few months prior during a February visit to Jimmy Kimmel Live!, explaining at the time, “I love the show so much, but I want to go see the world and maybe bring new music.”

To People, Perry emphasized that Underwood is bringing a new perspective to the show that neither of her co-judges can provide. “She actually truly knows … what it feels like to be in [the contestants’] shoes,” the “Firework” artist said. “We could only metaphorically feel that as judges.”

The country star competed on Idol back in 2005, winning the show’s fourth season. In August, Underwood said that the show “feels like home” in an interview with Good Morning America and said, “I feel like being on both sides of the coin, I’ll be able to hopefully offer some insight and help.”

“I can’t lie. I just can’t,” she added at the time of her judging style. “You can tell. I feel like I’ll be very honest, but hopefully, you know, I can be very constructive and encouraging.”

Perry’s comments about Underwood come shortly after the country drew a mixed reaction for her choice to perform at Donald Trump’s inauguration ceremony earlier this month, with the “Jesus, Take The Wheel” artist singing “America the Beautiful” a cappella after technical difficulties messed with her background music. Leading up to the event, Underwood defended her decision to perform, saying in a statement: “I love our country and am honored to have been asked to sing at the Inauguration and to be a small part of this historic event.”

She added, “I am humbled to answer the call at a time when we must all come together in the spirit of unity and looking to the future.”