'American Idol' bosses in crisis talks as Carrie Underwood's Trump support doesn't align with show values
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: The showrunners of 'American Idol' are reportedly not happy with newly appointed judge Carrie Underwood performing at the presidential inauguration of Donald Trump on Monday, January 20, reported the Daily Mail.
According to the publication, the bosses are concerned about the show's efforts to improve LGBTQ+ representation being unraveled as a result of the 41-year-old country singer.
Underwood was invited to sing 'America The Beautiful' at Trump's inauguration, which she did a capella after facing a technical glitch.
'American Idol' bosses concerned over Carrie Underwood being associated with Donald Trump
Sources reportedly told the Daily Mail that the 'American Idol' showrunners are worried that some contestants may feel "uncomfortable" with Underwood being associated with Trump, as the president's values majorly clash with those of the show.
"Idol contestants come from a wide range of diverse backgrounds, and so do the people who work on the show," an insider stated. "There are concerns that her apparent political stance might make some contestants feel uncomfortable."
"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," they shared.
'American Idol' has notably become a more inclusive space for minorities and members of the LGBTQ+ community after it was rebooted on ABC network instead of Fox in 2018.
Underwood, a former show winner, is set to join as a judge replacing Katy Perry in the upcoming 23rd season of the show.
"The general opinion is that Carrie should have thought about the show's culture and network values before jumping into such a major role while under contract," added the insider.
Internet backs Carrie Underwood amid backlash
Netizens took to X to express their support for Carrie Underwood's back while reacting to the news about 'American Idol' bosses being concerned about the impact of the singer supporting Donald Trump.
"@AmericanIdol Doesn't get that the boycott will go the other way if they cut her as a judge," wrote a social media user.
@AmericanIdol Doesn't get that the boycott will go the other way if they cut her as a judge.
— Renae Rogers (@CaRenaeTX) January 24, 2025
"If they have a problem with Carrie, I’ll never watch Idol again," stated another.
If they have a problem with Carrie, I’ll never watch Idol again.
— Patricia LaCorte (@LacortePatricia) January 25, 2025
"Are you joking right now that is absolutely ridiculous!" exclaimed one person.
"Her fellow judges better speak out in support of her!" noted another.
Her fellow judges better speak out in support of her!
— Patti DeCoursey (@PattidecPatti) January 25, 2025
"How ridiculous and petty is that? They are pathetic!" declared one individual.
This article contains remarks made on the Internet by individual people and organizations. MEAWW cannot confirm them independently and does not support claims or opinions being made online.
