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Luke Bryan tested positive for coronavirus. The country singer announced the sad news on Twitter on April 12, explaining that this diagnosis meant that he would not be able to act as judge for American Idol this past week. “I’m sad to say I won’t be a part of tonight’s first live @AmericanIdol show,” Bryan wrote. “I tested positive for COVID but I’m doing well and look forward to being back at it soon.”
In the meantime, Bryan is resting and recovering in quarantine at home.
For Monday's show, 'American Idol' legend Paula Abdul took his place. "Luke will be missed at our 1st #AmericanIdol LIVE show tonight, but is resting in quarantine at home & we wish him a speedy recovery," the show announced following Bryan's diagnosis. "We’re so excited to announce @PaulaAbdul will be stepping in as a guest judge with Lionel Richie & Katy Perry as we get closer to a new winner!"
Although Luke might not have been able to attend the performances in person, he did not exactly take a night off from his judging duties. Perry told Entertainment Tonight, "He was texting us. He was blowing up our phones during the whole episode. Some of it we can't even say."
Richie agreed. "We can't say half of it!" he joked.
"But he agreed with everything," Perry continued. "He was just giving critiques at home. I guess, alone in his room."
Perry also gave the outlet an update on Bryan's condition, and it's good news!
"He's totally good," Perry explained. "I think he's gonna be alright. I think we'll be seeing him next week."
