When Busy Showbiz Icons Meet: Ryan Seacrest and Jelly Roll Celebrate!
Two of the busiest people in the world of entertainment, Ryan Seacrest and Jelly Roll, are back together and having the time of their lives! It’s a moment that fans won’t forget. Jelly Roll celebrated his new role as American Idol's first-ever Artist in Residence by picking up Ryan and spinning him around in the air. This joyful scene was captured in an Instagram video they shared on Tuesday, February 4.
At 50 years old, Ryan Seacrest showed no signs of slowing down, exclaiming, “Good to see you, buddy!” as Jelly Roll, who’s 40, responded with a big “woohoo!” before hoisting Ryan into his arms. It’s clear that their friendship runs deep, and the excitement surrounding Jelly Roll’s new role is palpable.
Jelly Roll Jokes Around While Highlighting His New Role
Jelly Roll, whose real name is Jason DeFord, couldn’t resist a little humor when he joked about “helicoptering” Ryan. But beneath the laughter, there’s a serious mission. Ryan told Jelly Roll, “You’re shaping America’s future,” referring to his new job mentoring contestants on American Idol.
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“Yes, and I feel like I’m giving them the energy that they need. I’m uplifting and trying to get them going,” Jelly Roll said, sharing his vision for the contestants. The two were seen celebrating during a taping for American Idol’s upcoming season 23, and it’s evident that Jelly Roll is ready to inspire the next generation of singers.
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Ryan’s Reaction to Jelly Roll’s Enthusiasm
Ryan wasn’t about to let Jelly Roll’s energy go unnoticed. He responded to his friend’s enthusiasm by saying, “I need you every day.” Jelly Roll, known for his strength and charisma, then picked Ryan up and threw him over his shoulder, carrying him toward the exit. Ryan couldn’t help but laugh, saying, “Wow,” and adding, “I’m not that heavy, huh?” Jelly Roll’s ease in carrying Ryan underscores his physical strength and the fun-loving nature of their friendship.
Idol's First-Ever Artist in Residence
In the caption of his Instagram post, Jelly Roll wrote, “Had to lift up @ryanseacrest just like I’m gonna lift up the @americanidol hopefuls!” He went on to express his honor in being American Idol’s first-ever ARTIST IN RESIDENCE. “Mentoring with heart, soul, and real experience!” Jelly Roll added, showing his commitment to nurturing talent.
“I join the show during Hollywood Week, watch it all starting March 9,” Jelly Roll announced, which coincides with the premiere of American Idol’s season 23 on ABC.
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New Faces on 'American Idol'
Jelly Roll isn’t the only fresh face joining the upcoming season of American Idol. Country superstar Carrie Underwood has stepped in as a judge, replacing Katy Perry. Carrie, 41, made history when she won season four of American Idol back in 2005 on Fox, and now she’s returning to the show as a judge.
“This upcoming season marks 20 years since Carrie won America’s hearts on Idol and launched her successful multi-Grammy Award-winning career,” Craig Erwich, president of Disney Television Group, said in an August 2024 announcement. “As a former Idol and dynamic musical force, she brings a remarkably unique perspective to one of the most popular shows on television. Welcome home, Carrie.”

While Jelly Roll doesn’t make his debut until Hollywood Week, he’s shared the stage with Ryan before. The “Beautifully Broken” singer performed on Dick Clark’s Rockin’ New Year’s Eve With Ryan Seacrest on December 31, 2023. During that performance, Jelly Roll picked Ryan up with a hearty laugh after delivering a powerful medley of hits, including “Halfway to Hell,” “Wild Ones,” and “Need a Favor.”
Looking ahead, Jelly Roll is set for a busy schedule. Alongside his new role on American Idol, he’ll be hitting the road for a stadium tour with Post Malone, starting April 25 in Salt Lake City, Utah. The two have already collaborated on the song “Losers” from Post Malone’s first country album, F-1 Trillion.

