Carrie Underwood breaks down in tears over video of her 'American Idol' journey: 'It’s so unbelievable'

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Carrie Underwood, 42, broke down in tears in a new video as she reflected on her time on 'American Idol'. 

The country star won the singing competition in 2005 before becoming a judge on the show in 2025.

Carrie Underwood recalls 'death grip' moment before being announced as 'American Idol' winner

On Thursday, May 29, Carrie Underwood shared the final part of her video series titled 'Idol to Icon', offering a heartfelt look back at the moment that launched her career.

In the video, Underwood relived her 'American Idol' journey, saying, "Let’s look back at when you made me the winner of ‘American Idol.’ Thanks again to everyone who voted, by the way. I see you. Thank you all so much for everything."

She admitted she had “a death grip on the microphone” as she awaited the announcement of the winner from Ryan Seacrest.

After being named the winner, she praised fellow finalist Bo Bice, saying, “For the two of us to be in the finale together, it was a dream come true for me to have my friend next to me on that stage.”

As the video of her performance of 'Inside Your Heaven' started playing, Underwood described watching the footage as “still very surreal.”

 Underwood wiped away tears and added, “I’m going to get emotional. I think my journey on 'American Idol' all the time, because it’s so grand, it’s so unbelievable.”

Carrie Underwood on her 'insane' life transformation after 'American Idol' win

Carrie Underwood also reflected on how her life changed dramatically after her 'American Idol' win. 

“To go from somebody who was going to school, trying to figure out what she wanted to do with the rest of her life,” she said.

The 'Jesus, Take the Wheel' crooner added, “And then everything that’s happened since then, it just sounds insane. If I hadn’t made that one decision in my life, my life would be completely different."

Underwood concluded, “I have no doubt in my mind that I wouldn’t be doing anything like the life I have now if it weren’t for ‘American Idol.’ So it’s just a blessed journey I’ve been on.”

Meanwhile, a source told The US Sun that Underwood holds the power regarding her possible return to 'American Idol' next season.

“After all the bumps this season, and the beginning was bumpy, the people that matter in the decision making, the powers that be, really love Carrie,” the tipster told the publication.

Fans react to Carrie Underwood's emotional reflection on 'American Idol' journey

Fans reacted with praise and admiration for Carrie Underwood as she uploaded the heartfelt video of her reflecting on her 'American Idol' journey. 

One person commented on Instagram, “What an incredible story Carrie! Thank you @americanidol for giving us this super talented lady!❤️❤️❤️," and another said, “Loved you then Love you now!! America got it right!”

A fan expressed, "Simply the best! Genuine, kind, incredibly talented and humble! You are an inspiration for all!” while another added, “Awww little curly Carrie 😍🥰 and look at you now 🤩🌟✨👏🏻."

"Love this so much!!!! What an amazing story you have, Carrie! So happy I was a fan since the Idol days🥹," another comment read. Another admirer wrote, "We’re crying with you!! especially those of us who were here then 🥹."

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