Carrie Underwood's Trump Concert Sparks 'Idol' Backlash

Tensions are reportedly rising in the world of “American Idol” after the show's new judge Carrie Underwoodspeaking at the inauguration of President Donald Trump.

Underwood performed an a cappella rendition of “America the Beautiful” after an initial technical hiccup and was praised afterward.

However, her decision to perform for Trump has seemingly drawn controversy for “American Idol” as it seeks to represent LGBTQ people.

Although Underwood was honored to perform at the presidential inauguration, her decision to do so for Donald Trump was polarizing.

Before agreeing to the opening concert, Underwood was announced as a judge for the 23rd season of “American Idol,” which premieres March 9. Known for its inclusion and diversity, the show has stepped up its efforts to improve LGBTQ representation.

However, some saw Underwood's decision to speak for Trump as an obvious political stance, and the show's producers know how much impact it could have.

For example, there have been calls for Underwood to boycott her judging debut on the show, which she won in season four.

Insiders have now claimed that contestants may feel “uncomfortable” with Underwood as a judge, which could potentially lower the show's ratings.

The source of the story Daily mail“Idol contestants come from very different backgrounds, just like the people who work on the show.”

They added: “There are concerns that her apparent political stance could make some contestants feel uncomfortable.”

The insider explained that there was concern that the backlash against Underwood “could affect viewership,” adding, “Her apparent support for Trump is inconsistent with the show's values ​​of inclusivity and diversity.”

According to a source, there could be tension between Lionel Richie and Underwood.

They said: “Lionel Richie, who is very liberal, may not see Kerry's views, which could cause some tension. He never has and never will support Trump.”

The insider explained that changes made to “American Idols” since season 16 in 2018 meant that the show's judges “are generally advised to avoid becoming political figures.”

However, that hasn't stopped them from speaking their minds, as Luke Bryan did in 2022 when he invited Republican politician Ron DeSantis on stage at a Florida concert.

Faced with backlash for his actions, Brian defended himself, explaining that he was raising awareness to help victims of a natural disaster.

When asked if Underwood is considering a role on “American Idol” and how her inaugural performance could affect the show, the source described the general opinion of the country singer.

They said: “The general feeling is that Carrie should have thought about the culture of the show and the values ​​of the network before taking on such a significant role at the time of the contract.”

The insider's revelations are similar to those of another source who told the story USA Sun that “American Idol” producers may have been convinced that Underwood's post-inauguration performance would cause a backlash and lower ratings.

The source shared, “I don't think anyone from the show knew about Carey singing at the inauguration before it came out, it took them all by surprise.”

They added: “It doesn't conflict with any of her Idol taping dates and it's before this season airs, so it's not against her contract. But there are producers who don't approve and are worried.”

Insiders revealed that “American Idol” producers were afraid fans might boycott the show.

They said: “Many viewers are already talking about a boycott, whether it's true or just noise will be seen after the ratings come in, but the conversation it's putting Idol in now is not what the producers want. They don't want the show become political, they want it to be an escape from it.”

Carrie Underwood's Inauguration Day concert couldn't have gotten off to a worse start as she had to wait a long time to start. due to a technical problem preventing background music from playing.

Seeing that the music wouldn't play, Underwood tried to get the audience to sing along with her. She said, “If you know the words, help me here.”

Behind the crowd, the “Jesus Take the Wheel” singer performed a cappella, showing just how incredibly talented she is.

After her performance, fans went over to X to congratulate her. Many of them described him glowingly, using words like 'Amazing', 'A class act' and 'One of the greatest'.