10 awkward moments in ‘American Idol’ history: From Katy Perry’s kiss to Carrie Underwood’s ‘clucking’

10 most scandalous moments in 'American Idol': From feuding judges to controversial wins

Carrie Underwood, Kelly Clarkson, Jennifer Hudson, and other well-known musicians got their start in music thanks to 'American Idol,' which has long been a mainstay of popular culture. However, the show has also had its fair share of cringe-worthy and uncomfortable moments that have occasionally made viewers awkward alongside its glitter and grandeur. Here are the top 10 most awkward moments the show has ever had, ranging from mildly embarrassing to overtly humiliating.

1. Katy Perry and Benjamin Glaze's controversial kiss

Pop singer and judge Katy Perry made headlines when she abruptly planted a kiss on the lips of contestant Benjamin Glaze, who was 19 years old, during the show's ABC relaunch. What was supposed to be a lighthearted moment became controversial when Benjamin later admitted that it was his first kiss and that he was "uncomfortable" about the whole thing. It was one of the most awkward and talked-about moments in the history of the show, as it provoked debates about consent and proper conduct.

2. Nicki Minaj and Mariah Carey's challenging season

The fierce and often awkward rivalry between judges Nicki Minaj and Mariah Carey highlighted Season 12 of 'American Idol'. There was continuous eye-rolling, snarky remarks, and arguing between the two divas, who could not seem to get along. Their awkward on-screen connection overshadowed the competitors and turned the season into more about their rivalry than about talent. The incident, which Mariah subsequently dubbed "hell," is still remembered as one of the most awkward and humiliating times in the history of the show.

3. Co-host Brian Dunkleman's absence in Season 2

Brian Dunkleman and Ryan Seacrest served as co-hosts for the first season of 'American Idol' but Dunkleman disappeared by the time the second season arrived. Many spectators were perplexed by this abrupt absence. Later on, Brian revealed that the first season of the show caused him to experience mental and emotional difficulties, which prompted him to leave the cast. He left before Season 2 began, but he stated in a People interview that what he saw during the audition process still shook him.

4. Carrie Underwood 'clucking' her way through auditions

Carrie Underwood was merely a small-town girl trying out for 'American Idol' before she shot to fame in the country music industry. Carrie had a special skill during her audition: she could mimic the sound of a bird clucking. The judges and audience were left wondering how "clucking" would benefit her in the competition, which made for an awkward moment. However, Carrie won the competition and went on to become one of the most successful 'American Idol' alumni because of her amazing singing talent.

5. Katharine McPhee's shocking loss to Taylor Hicks

Fans were shocked when Katharine McPhee, who was largely considered the front-runner in Season 5, lost to Taylor Hicks. Viewers began to doubt the voting procedure's integrity after the unexpected setback. But Katharine didn't let the loss consume her for too long. Her loss is still remembered as one of the most shocking episodes in 'American Idol' history, though she went on to have a prosperous career in acting and music.

6. Paula Abdul passing judgment on someone who hadn't yet performed

Paula Abdul committed an enormous mistake in Season 7 when she reprimanded competitor Jason Castro for his second performance of the night—even though he had not yet performed it. Randy Jackson and Simon Cowell, two of Paula's fellow judges, were left perplexed and ashamed by her hasty comments. Paula, visibly agitated, acknowledged that judging was "hard" when Simon immediately corrected her.

7. Mario Vazquez's intriguing departure

Mario Vazquez stunned everyone in 2005 by leaving the competition unexpectedly, though he had advanced to the Top 12. The stated explanation, "personal reasons," sparked a lot of conjecture as to the true reason, particularly in light of his mother's allegation that she was unaware Mario had quit the show. Mario's sudden exit from 'Idol' was somewhat awkward. Initially, he attributed it to family issues; however, he later made appearances on David Letterman and other shows. As per Today, one of the speculations about Mario's sudden exit pertained to the show's infamously stringent agreement.

8. Ellen DeGeneres' brief stint as judge

Viewers were surprised by Ellen DeGeneres' choice to leave 'American Idol' after a single season. The famous daytime TV anchor admitted that the show wasn't the "right fit" for her, but there was a significant void in the judging panel after her abrupt departure. When radio personality Howard Stern asked Ellen if she hated her role as a judge on the singing competition series, Ellen replied, "Yes." As per People, she called her one season on the show in 2010 "one of the worst decisions I’ve made."

9. Katy Perry and Ryan Seacrest's uncomfortable moment

Seasoned talk show host Ryan Seacrest approached Katy Perry during a live show, mistakenly believing they were off camera. Perry firmly stated, "We're on," attempting to draw Ryan's attention to the camera as the footage panned in. "Your mum's pretty," he remarked. "My mum?!" exclaimed a shocked Perry. Then, maybe to let Seacrest know they were live, she winked and grinned at the camera before saying, "Well, I hope the apple doesn't fall from the tree." Ryan went on, "You are too, but you're not a mum yet." Although everyone eventually got along and resumed airing, the exchange unnerved a lot of people, per Independent.

10. Simon Cowell doubting age of a contestant

Despite his reputation for giving direct and often severe criticism, Simon Cowell's callout of a competitor who misrepresented his age is particularly noteworthy. Joseph, the competitor, claimed that he was 28 years old, but Simon soon pointed out that he appeared far older. Joseph's age was eventually discovered to be 44. This discovery was not only embarrassing for the contestant, but it also brought attention to Simon's astute observations, leading to one of the most remembered moments from the show.