Katy Perry says she's leaving 'American Idol' after 7 years as a judge

LOS ANGELES (TND) — Singing sensation Katy Perry said Season 22 of the reality show "American Idol" will be her last as a judge.

Perry made the announcement on Monday night's episode of Jimmy Kimmel Live!

I think this probably will be my last show -- my last season -- for Idol. I mean, I love Idol so much,"Perry told Kimmel. "It's connected me with, like, the heart of America, but I feel like I need to go out and feel that pulse to my own beat, you what I'm saying, Jimmy?”

She went on to say that she wants "to go and see the world and maybe bring new music." Plus, she said she is set to perform during Rock in Rio, a "huge music festival" in Brazil in September.

It wasn't immediately known who would replace her as a judge.

Perry joined the show as a judge in 2018 alongside Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie. She said she loves her fellow judges and added they both know she will be leaving the show.

"They know that I have some things planned for this year," she said, adding that's she's been in the studio. "It's going to be a very, very exciting year."

Perry also told Kimmel she'd consider returning to the show "if they'll have me one day."

"I'm sure they'll be very happy to have you and if it turns out you want to come back, I'm sure they'll fire whoever replaces you," Kimmel replied.

Perry, 39, recently wrapped up an 80-show residency in Las Vegas. She also sang at King Charles III's coronation last year.

Perry is among a list of celebrities who served as judges on "American Idol" over the years. It all started when it premiered on Fox June 11, 2002, with Randy Jackson, Paula Abdul, and Simon Cowell as the original judges.

Since then, the following celebrities have served as judges:

Ellen DeGeneres

Jennifer Lopez

Steven Tyler

Mariah Carey

Nicki Minaj

Keith Urban

Harry Connick Jr.

Kara DioGuardi

The show aired for 15 seasons until its cancellation in 2016. Two years later, a revival of the series began airing on ABC.

The upcoming season is set to premiere Sunday and will feature music superstars such as Lady Gaga, Jon Bon Jovi, and Stevie Nicks. They will serve as mentors and perform with contestants.