Luke Bryan has tested positive for coronavirus and will not film American Idol’s first live episode on Monday (April 12).
“I’m sad to say I won’t be a part of tonight’s first live @AmericanIdol show. I tested positive for COVID but I’m doing well and look forward to being back at it soon,” he shared on Twitter Monday morning, just hours before the series goes live at 8 p.m. ET.
The official American Idol Twitter account shared Bryan’s tweet and wished him “a speedy recovery” while announcing that original Idol judge Paula Abdul will be taking his place as a guest judge alongside Lionel Richie and Katy Perry. Abdul reigned as one of the core trio of judges — with Randy Jackson and Simon Cowell — for eight seasons. This marks the 58-year-old star’s first time judging the singing competition series since it made the switch from Fox to ABC in 2018.
“Luke will be missed at our 1st #AmericanIdol LIVE show tonight, but is resting in quarantine at home & we wish him a speedy recovery,” the show wrote on Twitter. “We’re so excited to announce @PaulaAbdul will be stepping in as a guest judge with Lionel Richie & Katy Perry as we get closer to a new winner!”
The first live episode of Idol airs tonight from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. ET on ABC.
