Lionel Richie agrees with Katy Perry's choice to leave American Idol, stating that it's a logical decision

Earlier this week, Katy Perry officially announced that season 22 will mark her final season on ‘American Idol’.

Lionel Richie is discussing Katy Perry’s departure from American Idol following her confirmation that the upcoming 22nd season will be her last. The singer shared insights on Perry’s surprising announcement during an interview on Jimmy Kimmel Live! on Thursday. Perry had also appeared on Live! earlier in the week.

“It completely caught me off guard when I first heard about it. My phone was blowing up,” Richie informed Kimmel, clarifying that he harbored no resentment towards Perry for dropping the bombshell news unexpectedly on the show.

Though Richie and fellow judge Luke Bryan were unaware of Perry’s departure plans, Richie expressed understanding, stating that her decision “makes sense.”

“In essence, the reason I cherish appearing on this show with you and why I’m involved with American Idol is because I have decades of stories and experience in the music industry. I have a history,” Richie reflected. “So when Katy expresses her desire to go out and create her own narrative, remember, she’s young. But the essence is that sometimes you need to take a step back and truly embrace being an artist.”

Perry reiterated her fondness for the show, emphasizing how it connected her with “the heart of America,” while explaining her decision to Kimmel.

Regarding Perry’s replacement, Richie mentioned that details are being kept under wraps.

“I’m clueless, but I’m telling you… It’s going to be fascinating. This is an exceptional show. What I appreciate most is that we’re artists, so we understand our craft, and these contestants are often petrified, so I relish being there as one of the experienced mentors, the three of us, sharing genuine insights,” Richie remarked.

Whoever occupies the judges’ panel, Richie emphasized, must possess “enduring humor and, above all, profound knowledge.”