Singer Will Make Triumphant Return on ‘American Idol’ Years After Husband’s Death

Kellie Pickler Heads Back to 'American Idol' Stage for First Time in Years - Country Now

Next week’s episode of “American Idol” will be an exciting one for fans of this country singer, who is scheduled to perform on the show.

Next week’s episode of American Idol will be an exciting one for fans of Kellie Pickler.

The “Best Days of Your Life” singer is expected to perform on the singing competition show. It will be a rare public appearance for Pickler. She has largely withdrawn from the spotlight in the three years since the death of her husband, Kyle Jacobs.

Kellie Pickler Isn’t the Only Singer Appearing

The news of the country singer’s return to the American Idol stage was shared on the April 29 episode of the show’s podcast.

“Next week, we will see your top five perform,” said host Danielle Fishel. “We are going to party like it’s 2006 when some of the favorite top 10 finalists from that historic season will return to duet with this season’s top five.”

In addition to Pickler, Taylor Hicks, Paris Bennett, Elliot Yamin, and Bucky Covington are all making appearances. Also slated to return are original judges Paula Abdul and Randy Jackson.

As fans may recall, the 39-year-old Pickler placed sixth on American Idol‘s fifth season. Hicks won that year.

What Happened to Pickler’s Husband, Kyle Jacobs?

Jacobs died on Feb. 17, 2023, in an apparent suicide. He was 49.  He was a songwriter who collaborated with his wife, Garth Brooks, Tim McGraw, and Kelly Clarkson. Jacobs also won an ACM award in 2014 for his work as a producer on the Lee Brice song “I Drive Your Truck.”

Pickler and Jacobs married in 2011 and starred in the documentary series I Love Kellie Pickler, which aired for three seasons.

“One of the most beautiful lessons my husband taught me was in a moment of crisis, if you don’t know what to do, ‘do nothing, just be still,’” Pickler said in a statement at the time. “I have chosen to heed his advice.”

She added, “Thank you to my family, friends, and supporters for the countless letters, calls, and messages that you have sent my way. It has truly touched my soul, and it’s helping me get through the darkest time in my life. As many of you have told me, you are all in my prayers.”

Pickler returned to the stage in 2024 at a concert paying tribute to Patsy Cline.

“I’d be lying if I didn’t say I was not incredibly nervous right now,” she said. “It’s been the first time I’ve been up on stage in a while.”