Ryan Seacrest Reacts To ‘American Idol’ Surprise Jelly Roll News

American Idol introduced a huge show shake-up to the new season. Now, host Ryan Seacrest gives his thoughts on Jelly Roll’s surprising show news.
Ryan Seacrest Is Preparing For American Idol Season 23
Recently, American Idol announced a new season twist for Season 23. Although Ryan Seacrest has had a huge year with extending his schedule to include being the host of Wheel Of Fortune, he is still on track for the debut of Idol. Along with Ryan Seacrest, Lionel Richie, Luke Bryan, and new judge Carrie Underwood, fans can also expect to see Jelly Roll as well. While Carrie has made waves with some Americans after performing at President Donald Trump’s inauguration, some think Jelly Roll, aka Jason DeFored, is just the person to help boost the ratings this season. He is making history on American Idol as the very first “Artist in Residence.”
Ryan Seacrest Reacts To American Idol Surprise Jelly Roll News
With American Idol taking the show to a new level, Ryan Seacrest has reacted to Jelly Roll joining the team. Jelly Roll’s new position is different from when he was on the show as a mentor previously. Instead, the “Artist in Residence” has the role of working “closely with the Idol hopefuls, giving them firsthand advice on how to navigate the journey.”
On Instagram, Ryan was in shock when Jelly Roll picked him up like a ragdoll and twirled him around in the motion of a helicopter. At first, Ryan calls out, “Jelly Roll!” Then, Jelly Roll yells, “Ryan,” then swoops in to lift him in the air. Ryan adds, “Good to see you, Buddy!” With childlike joy, Jelly Roll shouts, “I’m American Idol‘s artist in residence!”

Both were in great spirits. Ryan Seacrest let out a “Woohoo!” as he was spun around and set back down. Jelly Roll is so excited to be the first “Artist in Residence.” Ryan points out he likes being helicoptered and reminds Jelly Roll he is “shaping” America’s future. Likewise, Jelly Roll is prepared to share with the contestants his “energy” and will be “uplifting” to help them through the tough competition. Furthermore, Ryan agrees he needs someone like that every day. Much to Ryan’s surprise, again, Jelly Roll was literally “uplifting” for Ryan. He picks him up and carries him across the room as if he weighs only a few pounds. But Jelly Roll seems ready to help change lives, and Ryan is just as happy to have him along for the ride.
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Jelly Roll Will Be Joined By Other Celebrities
Seemingly, Ryan Seacrest is glad to see how American Idol is mixing things up. Not only will Jelly Roll be an “Artist in Residence,” but he will be mentoring contestants along the way. Notably, Ashanti and Josh Groban are two more celebrities fans can expect to see during the filming taking place in Hawaii. All three will assist the singers competing as they prepare to show their best skills to Carrie Underwood, Luke Bryan, and Lionel Richie. He’s reprising his role as a mentor from Season 22 with added responsibilities that will allow him to stick around for longer in Season 23. Jelly Roll’s lovable personality and resilience through struggles will help him as he guides others through the challenging process of competing. But his blend of comedy and authenticity makes him the perfect fit as the first ever “Artist in Residence.”
American Idol fans can catch Season 23 premiering on Sunday, March 9 on ABC. Then, it will stream the next day on Hulu. However, fans get a sneak peek, following the Oscars, on Sunday, March 2.
What do you think about Ryan Seacrest’s reaction to Jelly Roll joining in the fun at American Idol? Are you ready to see how the new “Artist in Residence” role works? Are you glad Carrie Underwood is taking Katy Perry’s position? Drop your comment below.
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