If you're a fan of American Idol, you might have noticed something different about this season. The one-of-a-kind backstage mentor, Bobby Bones, isn’t around to offer his sharp advice and unique perspective to the contestants. It's a big change for the show, especially as it kicks off its 20th season, a milestone in TV history. Bobby made the announcement back in December 2021, letting fans know he wouldn't be part of the 2022 lineup.
Why Did Bobby Bones Leave American Idol?
For those wondering what happened to Bobby Bones on American Idol, the radio host took to Instagram to explain. "Some of you noticed I’m not in the Idol promos this season," he shared in an Instagram Story. "My contract with my new network won’t let me do another show right now." Despite the absence, Bobby still has nothing but love for the show. "Love Idol, btw. Was a great four years," he added.
Bobby's New Adventures
At the time of his announcement, Bobby was in Costa Rica, working on a mysterious new project. "The network hasn’t even announced the show yet," he explained. "So, I’m going to chill for a bit. But it’s a really good show." Fans can expect big things from Bobby as he ventures into this new chapter of his career.
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His Legacy on American Idol
Bobby's journey with American Idol began when the show made its triumphant return to ABC in 2018. Initially serving as a guest mentor during season 16, Bobby quickly became a beloved figure, eventually stepping into a full-time mentor role for the next three seasons. Contestants leaned on him for guidance, soaking up his vast musical knowledge and personal insights. Bobby didn’t just offer advice; he built genuine connections with the artists, becoming a mentor and a friend.
"I don’t see Idol as [a job in which] I come in for an hour, leave and collect a paycheck. I’m really close to a lot of them," Bobby revealed to TV Insider in February 2021. "I took Walker Burroughs out on tour. Emma Cline — I thought she was so good in Hawaii. I felt bad she got cut so early. She plays in my band and opened for me for a while. Gabby Barrett is killing it. We’re still close. It’s not just a show or episode. Once I’m here and commit, I’m going to stay here and help as much as I can.”
Major Milestones Since Leaving American Idol
While Bobby may not be mentoring on American Idol anymore, he’s been hitting some serious career highs. In May 2021, he landed a show on National Geographic called Breaking Bobby Bones, where he explored the world, sharing stories and experiences with viewers. That same year, in August, he headlined his own music festival, Bobby Fest, with his band, The Raging Idiots. And just before the festival, Bobby tied the knot with Caitlin Parker in a gorgeous Tennessee wedding. The couple met in 2019 and their love story has been nothing short of magical.
"I had conversations with my mom growing up about when you fall in love with that right person and how you know," Caitlin shared with People after their wedding. "And she always told me that it’s just not hard. You will go through a lot of things together as a couple, but that the relationship itself shouldn’t be hard … And with Bobby, that’s how it’s always been. When I’m with him, there’s such a strong sense of peace about us no matter what it is we’re going through that day. I just know he’s the one for me.”
