“I'm Giving Them the Energy They Need”: Jelly Roll Unveiled as American Idol's First Ever Artist in Residence

Jelly Roll will serve as the first ever Artist in Residence in American Idol history, with the ‘Save Me‘ hitmaker joining the beloved talent show as a permanent fixture for Season 23.

Jelly Roll and Ryan Seacrest made the announcement in a typically hilarious fashion, with Jelly lifting up Seacrest as a visual representation of how he'll be “uplifting” the contestants.

In the skit, the ‘Need a Favor’ crooner greets Ryan Seacrest, who acts as the show's longstanding host, before immediately giving him one of his signature bear hugs. Jelly Roll addresses the camera, excitedly declaring, “I'm American Idol's first Artist in Residence!”, then turns to Seacrest to ask his friend what he makes of the surprise revelation. Seacrest responds, “It feels good when you helicopter me!”

Ryan Seacrest then underlines the gravity of Jelly Roll's task in guiding the next wave of music stars on American Idol, stressing - a little hyperbolically - that “You're shaping America's future”, with Jelly Roll replying, “Yes, and I feel like I'm giving them the energy they need. I'm uplifting and trying to get them going!” Seacrest quips that he looks forwards to having Jelly Roll's galvanising presence around him on a daily basis, before Jelly amusingly lifts him again and carries him to the exit.

It's not Jelly Roll's first involvement in the hit TV show, with the affable genre-blender acting as a guest mantor in the 2024 Disney Aulani Hawai’i episode with past winner, Tori Kelly.

American Idol has launched the careers of country hitmakers such as Scotty McCreery, Lauren Alaina, Gabby Barrett, Kelly Clarkson, Kellie Pickler and Carrie Underwood. The latter has joined the judging panel for Season 23, with Underwood helping the 2025 group of contestants alongside fellow country titan, Luke Bryan, Lionel Richie, after Katy Perry left the panel last year to focus on new music and touring.

The premiere of American Idol Season 23 is due to air on March 9th, 2025 on ABC, with a preview instalment of the show being released on Sunday, March 2nd following The Oscars.

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Featured photo by Devyn King