Kellie Pickler gives first interview since husband’s death in 2023

Kelly Pickler is reflecting on all the changes that have happened in her life since her audition. american idol More than 20 years ago.

“Honestly, I’m surprised by everything,” Pickler, 39, told the May 6 episode of “American Idol Official Podcast” with the host Danielle Fisher. “A lot of people who watched my season grew up with me and watched me on TV. It’s crazy to think, ‘Wow, 20 years have passed.’ “A lot of things have happened and I’ve been lucky. “

Pickler’s subsequent conversation with Fisher, 45 Join the Season 24 Contestants (and the eventual winner) Hannah Harper May 4, duet “Broken Wings” Martina McBride. The song was sung by Pickler during her audition for the fifth season, which aired in 2006.

“It’s so nice every time you come back Idolit’s kind of like you pick up where you left off with everyone,” Pickler explained. “I hope people really believe me when I say this: This is a family. it is a Idol Family, once you’re a part of it, it’s forever. “

Related: Emotional Kelly Pickler performs for first time since husband’s death

Jason Kempin/Getty Images Kellie Pickler returns to the stage for the first time since her husband Kyle Jacobs died by suicide in February 2023. Pickler, 37, performed at Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium on Monday, April 22, as part of the “Walkin’ After Midnight” event honoring the late Patsy Cline. “How were we tonight, (…)

Pickler’s comments mark her first interview since her husband, Kyle Jacobs, Died in February 2023 49 years old.

A spokesperson for the Davidson County Medical Examiner later confirmed to E! Jacobs committed suicide. A toxicology report concluded there were no signs of drugs in his system at the time of death.

Since her husband’s death, Pickler has stayed out of the public eye and away from social media.

However, when she got the chance to perform with Harper, Pickler said she couldn’t resist returning to the stage. american idol Hollywood stage.

“My sister, Hannah, contacted me after she auditioned,” Pickler recalled before sharing her first impressions of working with the finalists. “She’s such a doll, such a genius.”

During Monday, May 11, american idolHarper, 25, crowned winnerreceiving a recording contract and a huge cash prize.

Thank you!

You have successfully subscribed.

Related: Kelly Pickler and husband Kyle Jacobs’ relationship timeline

Kellie Pickler and husband Kyle Jacobs bonded over their musical backgrounds, but they chose to take their time before getting married. The American Idol star met her future husband through mutual friends in the mid-2000s. While playing Us Weekly’s “The Newlywed Game” in December 2015, the couple both recalled Jacobs’ pick-up line: “Hi, (…)

Although Pickler only finished in the top six during the 2006 season, she believes Harper and the other finalists have found their forever homes in the long run. Idol All hands on deck.

“No matter what season it is, it’s really nice to see so many people who were involved in making the show 20 years ago. It’s a family. We look out for each other,” she said. “Idol It’s a family gathering you want to go to because you don’t have any relatives. It’s perfect. “

If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, there is help available. Call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org.