The 22nd season of American Idol kicked off recently. So far, it's started off with a big announcement and an exciting audition for a Minnesota woman!

'American Idol' Big Announcement

A few weeks ago on Jimmy Kimmel, Katy Perry revealed that this season would likely be her last season as a judge on American Idol.

Her first season was season 16 so this will be her 7th season on the show.

Her, Luke Bryan, and Lionel Richie have become quite the trio as judges together!

ABC's "American Idol" - April 23, 2018 - Arrivals
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But there are rumors, of course. Katy said in the interview that she wanted to travel and do more music, and so that meant leaving Idol. But the rumors are that she's being pushed out by producers.

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I don't know if that's true but if so, that's unfortunate.

The rumor doesn't stop there, though. There are also talks that producers was Luke Bryan out, too, and they want to replace him with Jelly Roll.

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Like I said, these are all rumors right now so I don't know if Katy is being forced out or if Luke is even leaving. We'll have to wait and see.

Minnesota Auditions for 'American Idol'

On a more positive note, the other big thing happening this season is that a Minnesota native auditioned for the show!

The episode just aired on Sunday, February 25th. Her stage name is Abby Blake and she's originally from the small town of Caledonia in southeast Minnesota.

American Idol, YouTube
American Idol, YouTube
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She's 25 and she just moved to Nashville 2 years ago. I'd presume to chase her singing career.

I heard there were watch parties happening around southeast Minnesota but if you missed the audition here it is:

Now all Minnesotans have to watch American Idol this season to support her! Congrats, Abby!

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Gallery Credit: Billy Dukes

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