Is American Idol’s Carrie Underwood Feeling Pressure To Prove Herself As A Judge? (Her Easter Performance & Tweaks To Her Judging Style May Tell A Story)

While American Idol’s latest addition, Carrie Underwood, has been relentlessly scrutinized for her stint, the country superstar is proving critics wrong. Carrie was introduced to the panel in the Spring of 2025 as a replacement for the long-running judge, Katy Perry. Katy had maintained her position as a panelist for seven impressive seasons. The former judge was heavily criticized for her more direct nature, as many critics believed that she was too harsh with her feedback, but Carrie seems to be encountering the same problem.

Carrie’s reception on American Idol season 23 has been less than ideal. Many believe she has been too hesitant when offering constructive criticism, but her feedback has continuously improved throughout each episode. While Carrie may have taken a second to hit her stride, it’s worth mentioning she is joining a well-established show with seasoned panelists. Despite the public backlash, Carrie has been bettering herself, and online criticism may have played a role in these changes.

Carrie’s Probably Read Criticism About Her Judging Skills

Carrie Has Improved

Carrie’s introduction to the panel has been a risk for the network, and her public scrutiny has undoubtedly been carefully monitored. The country singer is aware of the public’s concerns. One of Carrie’s most popular and scathing articles from Radar Online reports that she is causing plummeting ratings. Insiders claim the network may regret their choice.

“With her time as a judge possibly ending before the May 18 finale.”

This news outlet sources from behind-the-scenes personnel, meaning these discussions are likely happening within the crew and producers. Carrie has inevitably been made aware of these comments. While she understandably needed some time to settle into her new position, her feedback, performance, and reputation have improved drastically.

Carrie Went All Out For Easter

Carrie Is Putting In The Work

Carrie exceeded expectations on American Idol’s Easter segment when she performed “How Great Art Thou” to an entranced audience. The superstar seems to be changing the audience’s sentiment regarding her talent and judging ability. Carrie is an undeniably talented, empathetic, and intelligent individual. She is making an effort to prove herself amidst the scrutiny.

Carrie Doesn’t Deserve The Shade

Carrie Has Contributed Tremendously

Carrie’s main criticism, she can’t turn down contestants, which was inevitable coming into the season. As a former contestant who found her fame and fortune through this competition, Carrie wants to understand everybody’s perspectives and give each contestant a fighting chance. While saying “no” can be just as important as encouraging budding artists, Carrie makes the contestants’ comfort a priority. Despite the public’s skepticism, Carrie has continuously contributed to the show.

Public scrutiny is inevitable when accepting a highly coveted position, especially in Carrie’s case, as American Idol has been a popular show for decades. Carrie’s judgment is not an indication of her talent or contributions to the show. Even if it were, the singer seems to be winning over audiences through her jaw-dropping performances and ever-improving feedback. The superstar has just started to prove herself, and audiences can expect another multi-year contract to be fulfilled.

American Idol airs Sundays & Mondays at 8 p.m. EDT on ABC.

Sources: Radar Online