Carrie Underwood’s Inauguration Performance May Backfire With ‘American Idol’

You surely know about the fierce pushback that Carrie Underwood’s performance at President Donald Trump’s inauguration touched off from the moment it was announced. Some disgruntled fans have apparently renounced Underwood altogether. They believe she is a supporter of Trump’s. Well, it looks like the flak from her appearance at the historic event just keeps on coming. Per dailymail.co.uk, there are now rumblings about incensed viewers boycotting Underwood’s debut as a judge on American Idol when the show returns for a new season on March 9, 2025.

Will ‘Idol’ Contestants And Staff Feel Uneasy Due To Carrie Underwood Seeming To Support President Trump?

Per the outlet, an anonymous source reportedly said, “Idol contestants come from a wide range of diverse backgrounds, and so do the people who work on the show. There are concerns that her [Underwood’s] apparent political stance might make some contestants feel uncomfortable.”

The source added, “There’s also worry that backlash could impact viewership. Her apparent support for Trump doesn’t align with the show’s values of inclusivity and diversity.”

This person specifically mentioned possible discord brewing between Idol judge Lionel Richie and Underwood due to their sharply differing political views. “Lionel Richie, who is very liberal, may not see eye to eye with Carrie’s views which could create some tension. He has never and will never support Trump.”

This person mentioned that Underwood, 41, could have considered Idol‘s “culture” more carefully before agreeing to sing at the Inauguration.

Carrie Underwood Returning As An Idol Judge Is Intended To Be Exciting And Fun, Not Controversial

It has been 20 years since the girl from Muskogee, Oklahoma, stood on the American Idol stage as a young contestant vying for the top honor. Two decades later, Underwood is indisputably one of the most acclaimed figures in the music industry.

Per the bio on her web site, she has heady accomplishments most artists can only dream of. Underwood “has sold more than 85 million records worldwide, recorded 28 #1 singles (14 of which she co-wrote), is the most-awarded female country artist for singles in RIAA history, and has seven albums that are certified Multi-Platinum or Platinum by the RIAA….” Underwood has earned more than 100 awards, among them eight Grammys.

The first episode of Idol‘s season 23 is just weeks away. People may be wondering if Carrie Underwood’s situation will overshadow what should have been a great moment for her and the show. We will all just have to wait and see.