The original American Idol is headed back to the place where she got her crown.

Tonight’s episode confirmed that Kelly Clarkson will be returning to the stage on April 1st. According to E! , the vocal veteran will not only be performing but also mentoring the contestants as well. Lucky them! Clarkson took the first season’s winning title back in 2002 against runner-up, Justin Guarini.

Clarkson has had quite the year. With the birth of her first child, River Rose, and her recent album Piece by Piece at the number one on the top Billboard 100, the former Texan’s success is continuing to flourish.

The contestants dwindled down from 12 to 11 on tonight’s episode of Idol, which had Empire star Taraji P. Henson making an appearance. The contestant sent packing was Sarina-Joi Crowe, after her performance of "Love Runs Out" by One Republic.

It will sure be exciting to see Kelly return once again to the show that made her known.

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