Jelly Roll has some major news to share — he's making it over to a reality competition judging panel, but not the way you'd think.
The country music singer, 40, took to social media to reveal that he will be fulfilling a major first for American Idol ahead of its return on March 9.
The ABC show announced on Tuesday, February 4 that the singer, real name Jason Bradley DeFord, will be the show's first ever "Artist in Residence."
As part of his role, he will be acting as a regular mentor to the new contestants, starting his job during Hollywood Week, and will remain a point of support for the young singers as they make their way through the competition.
He appeared in an adorable clip with host Ryan Seacrest celebrating his role, even excitedly lifting the TV veteran up as they celebrated his years of experience in the field, which he hopes to impart onto the Idol hopefuls.
"Had to lift up @ryanseacrest just like I'm gonna lift up the @americanidol hopefuls," he gushed. "Honored to be Idol's first-ever ARTIST IN RESIDENCE — mentoring with heart, soul, and real experience! I join the show during Hollywood Week."
The network shared a statement with Variety about his introduction, explaining that Jelly Roll will be "a permanent fixture this season and will work closely with the Idol hopefuls, giving them firsthand advice on how to navigate the journey."
The singer was most recently nominated for a pair of awards at the 67th annual Grammys for his emotional song "I Am Not Okay," and was slated to make an appearance. However, he was unable to attend.
He was up for Best Country Solo Performance, which he lost to Chris Stapleton for "It Takes a Woman," and Best Country Song, losing the latter to Kacey Musgraves' "The Architect." He previously earned two nods at the 2024 ceremony, including Best New Artist.
MORE: Jelly Roll's latest career pivot revealed
The "Son of a Sinner" hitmaker will join returning judges Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie, plus the show's other new addition, former Idol champion Carrie Underwood.
Jelly Roll is no stranger to the American Idol stage, however, having appeared as a mentor last season, season 22, during the show's visit to Hawai'i. He was also a guest performer during the finale in 2023, presenting his Grammy-nominated duet with Lainey Wilson, "Save Me."
MORE: Jelly Roll's mini-me son hits the red carpet with famous dad — see photos
In fact, his appearance was so popular that former judge Katy Perry herself suggested that he be her replacement on the show. "I gotta say Jelly Roll was crazy when he came on the show," she told E! News ahead of her departure after seven seasons.
"I was convinced at anything he said. He could run for president, he could be my pastor, I might go back to church for him. He could sell me anything," she continued to gush, expressing why he'd be a great addition alongside Luke and Lionel. "And to have any of these guys plus Jelly on the show would be amazing. I love you, Jelly!"