Baby No. 3 Is On the Way – And Katy Perry Surprised Carrie Underwood With a Gift That Left Her Speechless 🎁👶✨

In a heartwarming blend of music, television, and personal milestones, Carrie Underwood, the American Idol Season 4 winner and current judge, shared a monumental moment during a live episode of the show’s 23rd season on ABC, aired on March 9, 2025. The country music superstar, already a proud mother to sons Isaiah (10) and Jacob (6) with husband Mike Fisher, revealed the gender of her third child in a dazzling on-air event that had fans and fellow judges emotional. Adding to the magic, former Idol judge Katy Perry surprised Underwood with a heartfelt gift that left her speechless, amplifying the joy of the occasion. The moment, coupled with an unforgettable reaction from judge Luke Bryan, sent fans into a frenzy, with social media platforms like X alight with tears, heart emojis, and celebration.

A Full-Circle Moment on American Idol

Carrie Underwood’s connection to American Idol is iconic. Her 2005 victory launched a career that includes eight Grammy Awards, 28 No. 1 singles, and over 85 million records sold worldwide. Returning as a judge in 2025, replacing Katy Perry alongside Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie, Underwood brought a unique perspective as the first Idol alum on the panel. Her debut season was already steeped in nostalgia, but the gender reveal for her third child elevated the emotional stakes, making it a landmark moment for both her and the show.

The reveal occurred during a high-energy episode filled with auditions and surprises. Host Ryan Seacrest, a constant presence since Idol’s inception, set the stage by introducing a segment celebrating Underwood’s journey. A montage aired, showcasing her 2005 audition in St. Louis, where she sang Bonnie Raitt’s “I Can’t Make You Love Me,” and her rise to stardom with hits like “Before He Cheats” and “Jesus, Take the Wheel.” As the segment concluded, Seacrest announced that Underwood had a special surprise for the Idol audience: the gender reveal of her third child.

The Gender Reveal: A Shower of Pink

With the audience buzzing, Underwood stood at the judges’ table, glowing with excitement. “This show gave me my start, and it feels right to share this moment here with all of you,” she said, her voice trembling with emotion. She invited Bryan and Richie to join her in opening a sealed envelope containing the gender. Luke Bryan, ever the jokester, quipped, “Carrie, you’re making me nervous!” before tearing open the envelope. With a dramatic flourish, he announced, “It’s a… GIRL!” The studio exploded in cheers as pink confetti rained down, confirming that Underwood and Fisher would welcome a daughter later in 2025.

Underwood, visibly moved, hugged her fellow judges as the crowd chanted her name. Fans on X immediately erupted, with posts like, “Carrie’s having a girl on American Idol! I’m crying 😭💖 #IdolReveal” and “Pink confetti for Carrie’s baby girl! This is EVERYTHING 💕 #AmericanIdol.” The reveal was a perfect blend of personal joy and Idol magic, resonating with viewers who’ve followed Underwood’s journey for two decades.

Luke Bryan’s Emotional Reaction

While the reveal was a highlight, Luke Bryan’s reaction stole hearts. Known for his playful banter, Bryan turned emotional, saying, “Carrie, you and Mike are gonna be the best parents to this little girl. I’m just… I’m a mess right now.” His voice cracked, and he wiped away tears, prompting a collective “aww” from the audience. The moment went viral, with fans tweeting, “Luke Bryan crying for Carrie’s baby girl has me in PIECES 😭😭 #AmericanIdol” and “Luke’s reaction to Carrie’s reveal is why we love him 💖 #IdolFamily.”

In a post-episode interview with Good Morning America, Bryan explained, “Carrie’s like family, and seeing her so happy just hit me hard. That little girl’s gonna be so lucky.” His genuine emotion underscored the tight-knit bond among the judges, making the moment even more poignant for viewers.

Katy Perry’s Heartwarming Surprise

Adding an unexpected layer of warmth, Katy Perry, who served as an Idol judge for seven seasons before stepping down in 2024, sent Underwood a surprise gift that left her speechless. As the confetti settled, Seacrest revealed that Perry, watching from home, had arranged for a delivery to the set. A stagehand brought out a beautifully wrapped box adorned with pink ribbons. Inside was a delicate, hand-stitched baby blanket embroidered with the words, “To Carrie’s Little Star, Love Katy.” Accompanying the gift was a handwritten note from Perry, which Underwood read aloud, her voice shaking: “Carrie, you were born on this show, and now your daughter will grow up with your light. Congratulations, mama. Love, Katy.”

The gesture, a nod to Perry’s own time on Idol and her support for Underwood’s new role, moved Underwood to tears. “I didn’t expect this,” she said, clutching the blanket. “Katy’s heart is so big, and this means the world.” Fans on X praised Perry’s thoughtfulness, with one writing, “Katy Perry sending Carrie a baby blanket is the sweetest thing I’ve ever seen 😭💖 #AmericanIdol.” Another posted, “Katy and Carrie’s Idol bond is forever. That gift was perfect 💕 #BabyGirlUnderwood.”

Perry later shared on X, “Couldn’t miss Carrie’s big moment! Sending love to her and that sweet girl-to-be 💖 @carrieunderwood #Idol.” The gift highlighted the camaraderie between the two stars, despite Perry’s exit from the show to focus on her music, including her 2024 album 143 and subsequent world tour.

The Judges’ Dynamic and Fan Reactions

Underwood’s transition to judge has been a focal point of Season 23, with her emotional authenticity and experience as a contestant earning praise. Luke Bryan told Billboard that Underwood’s presence has inspired more gospel performances, reflecting her 2021 album My Savior. Lionel Richie, meanwhile, jokingly called himself the “cool uncle” to Underwood’s daughter, adding levity to the emotional night. The trio’s chemistry, combined with Perry’s gesture, reinforced Idol’s sense of family, a theme fans embraced online.

Social media was flooded with reactions, from “Carrie’s gender reveal and Katy’s gift have me sobbing 😭 #AmericanIdol” to “Luke’s tears, Katy’s blanket, Carrie’s baby girl… this is why Idol is the best 💖💙.” Fans speculated about the baby’s name, suggesting “Hope” or “Melody” to tie into Underwood’s musical legacy. The reveal also sparked renewed excitement for Underwood’s judging tenure, with many hoping she’ll return for Season 24.

Underwood’s Growing Family and Career

Underwood has been open about cherishing motherhood, often sharing stories about her sons, Isaiah and Jacob, who attended the Idol finale to support her. In a 2024 People interview, she described Isaiah’s excitement over her judging role, calling it “so cool.” Her third child, a girl, adds a new chapter to her family life with Fisher, a former NHL player. Despite a challenging 2017 fall that left her with a broken wrist and facial injuries, Underwood’s resilience shines through, balancing her career with family.

The gender reveal, paired with Perry’s gift, was a testament to Underwood’s ability to weave her personal and professional lives. By choosing Idol for this moment, she honored the show that launched her while inviting fans into her joy. Her Las Vegas residency, Reflection, set to stream on Hulu in January 2025, and her ongoing Idol role keep her in the spotlight as she prepares for her daughter’s arrival.

A Moment to Remember

The gender reveal for Carrie Underwood’s third child was more than a TV spectacle—it was a celebration of her journey from Idol contestant to global star and soon-to-be mother of three. Luke Bryan’s tearful reaction and Katy Perry’s heartfelt gift elevated the moment, creating a tapestry of emotion that resonated with fans. As one X user put it, “Carrie’s baby girl reveal, Luke’s tears, and Katy’s blanket—this is why Idol feels like home 😭💖 #AmericanIdol.” With her daughter’s arrival on the horizon, Underwood continues to inspire, proving that her Idol story is far from over.