Kellie Pickler is heading back to American Idol.
The country singer and former contestant will return to the stage on Monday, May 4, as part of a special episode celebrating the show’s Class of 2006.
It marks a full-circle moment for the fan favorite, who first made her name on the show nearly two decades ago.
She Won’t Be Alone
According to the official American Idol podcast, she’ll be joined by fellow alums Taylor Hicks, Paris Bennett, Bucky Covington and Elliott Yamin.
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The group is set to duet with this season’s Top 5 contestants as part of the reunion celebration.
The episode will also feature performances with Dancing with the Stars pros, adding another layer to the live show as America votes to determine the Top 3.
A Return to the Spotlight
The appearance marks a rare return to the stage for Pickler.
She has largely stayed out of the public eye in recent years, stepping back following the 2023 death of her husband, songwriter Kyle Jacobs.
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She briefly returned to performing in April 2024 for a tribute to Patsy Cline at the Grand Ole Opry, but this Idol appearance marks one of her most high-profile moments since.
From Contestant to Star
Pickler first appeared on American Idol in 2006 at just 19 years old, quickly becoming a fan favorite and finishing in sixth place.
She went on to launch a successful music career, with her debut album Small Town Girl earning Gold certification and producing hits like “Red High Heels” and “I Wonder.”
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She later scored a Platinum hit with “Best Days of Your Life” and expanded her career into television, winning Dancing with the Stars and co-hosting the syndicated talk show Pickler & Ben, which earned five Emmy nominations.
Pickler has also built a career in acting, appearing in films and TV shows including Christmas at Graceland, The Mistletoe Secret, 90210 and Billy Lynn’s Long Halftime Walk.
PICTURES: Kellie Pickler Returns to the Stage at the Ryman Auditorium
Kellie Pickler returned to the stage for the first time since her husband Kyle Jacobs’ death at the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville on Monday night (April 22), performing as part of a tribute to Patsy Cline.
Gallery Credit: Sterling Whitaker
