'Can't do that': Kelly Clarkson reveals why she won't replace Katy Perry on 'American Idol' despite owing her fame to show

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Kelly Clarkson has decided not to return to 'American Idol' despite being an ideal candidate to replace Katy Perry as a judge, as reported by OK Magazine.

The talk show host, who was the first season winner of 'American Idol', explained her decision at the 51st annual Daytime Emmy Awards.

Kelly Clarkson won't be replacing Katy Perry on 'American Idol'

"No. No. I can't do that, only because I promised my kids. I was like, 'I want to be there as much as I possibly can,'" Clarkson shared. She emphasized that the role would require her to be in Los Angeles, which is also why she stepped down from 'The Voice', a show she dearly misses.

Katy Perry, who announced earlier this year that she would be leaving the ABC show after six years, echoed a similar sentiment about moving on. "I think this probably will be my last show, my last season for Idol," Perry said on 'Jimmy Kimmel Live!'. She expressed her love for the show and its connection to the heart of America, but felt it was time to pursue other ventures.

"I mean I love Idol so much. It’s connected me with the heart of America, but I feel like I need to go out and feel that pulse to my own beat, you what I’m saying, Jimmy?" she said.

Clarkson, reflecting on her 'American Idol' journey, acknowledged the profound impact the show had on her life. "Twenty years ago today I won American Idol and it forever changed the course of my life," she wrote on Instagram.

She credited the show for opening numerous opportunities and creating invaluable partnerships, friendships, and family bonds. She also expressed gratitude to everyone who voted for her, encouraging others to seek out people who bring joy and support into their lives.

"That moment was the door that opened up so much access and opportunity, and created partnerships that I will be grateful for all of my days. The family and friendships I have created in these 20 years in music and TV are priceless to me," she continued.

"We only get so many trips around the sun and while I am proud and feel abundantly blessed of the successes and failures that I have learned from, I am most proud and grateful for those friends that have become family, and for their arms that have held me when I needed It and their hearts that listened to me when I felt lost," the chart topper added. "Without them I would not be where I am. I would probably not be here at all."

In an interview with Entertainment Tonight, Clarkson conveyed how important it is for her to be present for her children, which ultimately influenced her decision to not return to 'American Idol'.

Kelly Clarkson faces backlash for using weight loss drug, but not Ozempic

Kelly Clarkson recently opened up about her weight loss journey, revealing on 'The Kelly Clarkson Show' that she has been using a prescription weight-loss drug to manage her health issues. While addressing the rumors and clarifying that she did not use the popular drug Ozempic, Clarkson admitted that her rapid transformation was not solely due to "walking" more and reducing carbs, as she previously stated.

In a conversation with guest Whoopi Goldberg, who also shared her weight loss experience, Clarkson disclosed that her medication was different from what people assumed. "Everybody thinks it's Ozempic, it's not - it's something else," she clarified, adding that her doctors prescribed the drug following concerning bloodwork and a pre-diabetic diagnosis.

Clarkson mentioned her initial hesitation to use the medication due to her thyroid issues but eventually decided to prioritize her health. She explained that the drug helps her body break down sugar properly, a function it struggles with naturally. She also shared that she previously lost weight in New York City by following her doctor's advice, altering her diet, and increasing her physical activity.

Clarkson's revelation has sparked a mixed reaction on the internet. While some fans appreciate her honesty, others feel disappointed that she wasn't upfront about using medication from the start. The singer, who is 5 feet 3 inches tall, revealed that at her heaviest, she weighed 203 pounds. Despite not feeling insecure about her weight, she acknowledged that she was at a high risk of severe health issues.