Carrie Underwood is a perfect choice to replace Katy Perry as a judge on American Idol — she knows the show better than most stars — but fans will be surprised to learn that she was not showrunners’ first pick.

Despite competing on the show and winning Season 4, the ABC network had their sights set on another A-list singer: Miley Cyrus.

“It’s well known internally that Miley Cyrus was the network and the producers’ first choice to replace Katy, but topping Katy’s already-high salary was never on the table with Miley,” a source at ABC says.

Underwood is reportedly earning half the salary that Perry did. This puts her around the same amount that fellow country singer and current judge Luke Bryan earns, which is $12 million per season.

Why Carrie Underwood Should Replace Katy Perry on Idol

Underwood is easily one of the biggest success stories to come out of the American Idol franchise. In addition to her musical career, she’s created a business empire with her partnerships and even her own brands, like her Fit52 app.

The country singer also maintains a deep appreciation for the show, which will come across to the audience. This made her a better choice in the longrun.

“Another one of Carrie’s strengths is her humility, and Carrie did not need to be offered a Katy-sized salary to come back into the franchise,” the insider reveals.

“Ego is not what drives her, and she isn’t a greedy person. And culturally she’s a better fit with the show, the producers and ABC thanks to her middle-America appeal.”

In the end, Underwood’s past experience as a competitor — and her humble Oklahoma upbringing — gives her an insider perspective, and being able to connect with contestants on their level will make the show more compelling.