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7 Jul 2025 17:58
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  •   Home > News > Entertainment

    Luke Bryan has tested positive for coronavirus

    The 'American Idol' judge is set to miss the first live show of the season after receiving a positive test for the virus


    Taking to Twitter, he wrote: "I’m sad to say I won’t be a part of tonight’s first live @AmericanIdol show. I tested positive for COVID but I’m doing well and look forward to being back at it soon. (sic)"

    And now Paula Abdul will be stepping in to take his place alongside regular judges Katy Perry and Lionel Richie.

    A post on the show's official Instagram account read: "Luke will be missed at our first #AmericanIdol LIVE show tonight, but he is resting now in quarantine at home and we’re wishing him a speedy recovery. We’re so excited to announce Paula will be stepping in as a guest judge to join Lionel Richie and Katy Perry as we get closer to crowning a new winner! (sic)"

    Meanwhile, Luke previously admitted it is "very, very tough" not being able to hug 'American Idol' contestants.

    He said: "The interesting thing is just trying to navigate all of the new rules of COVID-19. One tricky thing is a lot of times during the audition process, contestants will get very, very emotional and it will be an emotional situation for them. The fact that me and Lionel and Katy can't walk out there and do the human element — hug and show support and love, is very, very tough. I think that's one thing you'll see as a viewer of me and Lionel and Katy.

    "When someone is hurting and they're emotional, you want to console them and hug them and love on them to help them through. The fact that sometimes we can't go put our arms around them is pretty heartbreaking."

    © 2025 Bang Showbiz, NZCity

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     Today's News

    Entertainment:
    Sir Lewis Hamilton experienced a massive culture shock when he moved to Formula One team Ferrari - although he is happy he no longer has to endure the smell of curry on race days 17:36

    Law and Order:
    The search continues for 57-year-old Aucklander, Ella Davenport, missing since June 20 from her Mangere East home, on Hain Avenue 17:27

    International:
    Hundreds of girls were 'living their best life' at Texas summer camp. Then disaster struck 17:07

    Entertainment:
    Yungblud "found solace in being similar" to Ozzy Osbourne 17:06

    Rugby League:
    Warriors NRL-W captain Apii Nicholls is backing five-eighth Patricia Maliepo to be a key influence for the team moving forward 16:57

    Entertainment:
    Liam Gallagher's son Lennon Gallagher "can't wait" to see his dad back onstage with Oasis 16:36

    Law and Order:
    Wellington Police have revealed further details of serious injuries sustained by a young Hutt Valley baby 16:17

    Law and Order:
    In Australia - a jury has indicated it's reached verdicts in the fatal mushroom lunch trial - and is expected to reconvene shortly 16:07

    Entertainment:
    Emma Roberts would love to play the next murder victim on The White Lotus 16:06

    Politics:
    The Government says changes to child banking requirement - are one step in its new anti-money laundering regime 15:57


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