Jelly Roll, a super talented singer, just joined the TV show American Idol in a big way! He said, “Glad to be a part of the Idol family for the rest of the season,” as he walked onto the stage for the first time on Sunday, April 6. This was during a part of the show called the “Showstoppers” round. Jelly Roll isn’t just visiting—he’s the first-ever “Artist In Residence,” which means he’ll be helping the contestants all season long.
Lionel Richie, one of the judges, welcomed Jelly Roll to the stage. He told the young singers, “We brought in some extra help. He’s going to be with us all season to help you through the ups and downs.” Then he said, “Welcome back!” because Jelly Roll had been on the show before as a guest. Jelly Roll smiled and told the contestants, “Glad to be back! We’ve got a big job ahead, and not a lot of time. Are you ready for tonight? It’s going to be a long one!” The singers, sitting in the audience at the beautiful Orpheum Theatre, cheered.
Before he started this new job, Jelly Roll talked to Billboard, a music magazine, about what it’s like. He said, “Hollywood Week is wild—crazier than what you see on TV!” He explained his role, saying, “I’m here to help these young singers connect with the people watching at home. I’m also a bridge between them and the judges. I give them advice and try to make them feel good about how awesome they sound.”
He also shared some behind-the-scenes secrets. “Filming the show is busy and messy, but the cameras don’t show everything,” he said. “I love it because it’s like the real music world. I help the kids pick their songs and partners for singing battles. Sometimes they choose the wrong partner, and I’m there to guide them.”
The people who make American Idol picked Jelly Roll because he’s so great. Megan Michaels Wolflick, the boss of the show, told Billboard, “He was amazing last year. He brought so much fun and energy. Everyone loved him, and we wanted him back.” She added, “He really loves Idol. He said it’s one of the biggest things in his career. He even watched every singer’s video and talked to them before filming to make them feel comfy. I’ve never seen anyone help out this much!”
Megan also explained why they called him “Artist In Residence.” She said, “The word ‘mentor’ felt too simple. This title shows how important he is. He’s with us all season and cares a lot—more than we even expected.”
Jelly Roll’s new role was first announced in February 2025 in a fun YouTube video with Ryan Seacrest, the show’s host. Jelly Roll shouted, “I’m American Idol’s ‘Artist in Residence!’” He told Ryan he felt great about it. Ryan said Jelly Roll is helping shape the future of music, and Jelly Roll agreed, saying, “I’m giving these kids the energy they need to keep going!”
Jelly Roll will be a big part of the show, helping the singers with tips and support. You can watch American Idol on Mondays and Tuesdays at 8 PM on ABC. Do you think Jelly Roll will be a great helper for the contestants?
