Kelly Clarkson thinks Carrie Underwood‘s upcoming role as a judge on American Idol just makes perfect sense.

“I think that’s brilliant,” the pop star told E! News when asked for her reaction to Underwood’s appointment on the show. “Like, what better person to have — somebody that’s won the show — to come back.”

Of course, Underwood won Season 4 of American Idol in 2005. Now, with more than 85 million records sold and a consistent spot in country music’s A-List, she’s widely considered to be one of the show’s most successful alumni.

Clarkson’s own career path has followed a similar trajectory. She was the winner of the very first season of Idol, and has since gone on to become a mainstay in genre-crossing, vocal-forward pop music.

She also predicted that Underwood would make a great Idol judge more than a decade ago: Back in 2012, she said that Underwood had all the necessary skills to succeed as a judge on the televised singing competition.

Related: Why The Timing Is Just Right for Carrie Underwood to Join American Idol

Now, Clarkson says that Underwood’s history with Idol will help her be able to “be honest with” contestants.

“That’s invaluable,” she continues. “To have somebody to look at and go, ‘Okay, they’ve done it and they’re sitting right there. So that means I am capable of doing it. I can dream that big.'”

Underwood’s appointment as judge is something of a full-circle moment for the star, who returns to the show 20 years after winning her season. She’s stepping in for Katy Perry, who announced her retirement last season, and joining a panel that also includes Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie.

The premiere date for Season 23 of American Idol has yet to be announced. It’s expected to air in 2025.