Luke Bryan was absent during American Idol‘s first live show on Monday, April 12 after the country star tested positive for COVID-19. Bryan shared the news with fans on Monday, issuing a statement via his Instagram Story and Twitter: “I’m sad to say I won’t be a part of tonight’s first live American Idol show. I tested positive for COVID but I’m doing well and look forward to being back at it soon.”
After Bryan revealed his diagnosis, American Idol announced on social media that the show will bring back original judge Paula Abdul in to fill Bryan’s spot. A statement on the show’s Instagram read: “Luke will be missed at our first #AmericanIdol LIVE show tonight, but he is resting now in quarantine at home and we’re wishing him a speedy recovery. We’re so excited to announce @paulaabdul will be stepping in as a guest judge to join Lionel Richie and Katy Perry as we get closer to crowning a new winner!”
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