After returning to the show where it all began for her, Kellie Pickler gave her first interview in three years on the American Idol Official Podcast.
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This was also the first time the "Best Days of Your Life" singer had been interviewed since the death of her husband, Kyle Jacobs, in February 2023 at the age of 49.
Kellie Pickler Talked About Her Time on "American Idol"
On the May 6 episode, Pickler spoke with podcast host Danielle Fishel. During their conversation, she reflected on her life over the two decades since she first appeared on American Idol.
"It's just like come full circle, I guess," Pickler said. "And 20 years, like you said, it's so nice that each time you come back to Idol, it's kind of like you pick up right where you left off with everyone. I hope people really believe me when I say this: it is a family here. It is an Idol family."
In the time since she appeared on the singing competition show, Pickler has built an impressive music career. Then, in 2011, she married Kyle Jacobs. She also starred in the documentary series I Love Kellie Pickler for three seasons.
She expressed sincere gratitude, saying she feels "very blessed" that the show opened up new possibilities for her.
"I think just coming from such a small town, and I've never really been anywhere," said Pickler. "That was my first time getting on an airplane, flying to Hollywood. It's the first time I flew across the country and experienced all of these first-time moments with the world watching at the same time."
Pickler Also Performed on "Idol" Last Week
Last week, Pickler performed the Martina McBride song "A Broken Wing" with now-season 24 winner Hannah Harper. Judge Lionel Richie praised the two singers, saying they made "one dynamic performance."
When Pickler appeared in 2006, she placed sixth in the competition. Taylor Hicks won that season.
Before returning to American Idol last week, Pickler bravely stepped onstage at a 2024 concert honoring Patsy Cline. It was her first performance since the loss of her husband, Jacobs, in an apparent suicide on Feb. 17, 2023.
You can watch Pickler's entire interview below.
