Carrie Underwood wants people to stop worrying about marriage with Mike Fisher amid ‘American Idol’ role

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Carrie Underwood is dismissing concerns about her marriage while embarking on her new role as a judge on 'American Idol.'

The country music star, 41, has expressed enthusiasm for her upcoming gig on the ABC talent show and reassures fans that her relationship with her husband Mike Fisher can handle the separation, as reported by OK Magazine.

Carrie Underwood and Mike Fisher ready for long-distance challenge during 'American Idol'

According to insiders, Underwood is unfazed by the long-distance aspect of her job. "Carrie swears they can handle the long distance," a source revealed. "Their friends are anxious about how they’ll handle the distance, but Carrie is determined not to let it impact her marriage."

The couple, who have been married since 2010, reside primarily in Nashville with their two children, Isaiah, 9, and Jacob, 5. Despite the physical distance, Underwood plans to be present at home whenever possible. "Carrie will be home whenever she can," the insider said.

"Kids need structure so for the most part they’ll stay at home while Carrie’s traveling," the source continued. "Long distance is always a challenge, but Carrie says their faith in marriage and in God is stronger than anything. She wishes people would stop worrying."

Underwood’s new role on 'American Idol' comes as she is also adjusting from a busy tour schedule. The couple has previously navigated similar challenges, particularly during Fisher’s career as a professional hockey player and his subsequent retirement.

Despite past struggles, the source notes that Underwood and Fisher have successfully prioritized their relationship, making time to reconnect when necessary.

"They had their share of struggles behind closed doors, specifically when Mike was still playing hockey and they were having a hard time balancing their careers and home life."

"But there were still rough patches after his (2018) retirement, too. When they feel frustrated with each other or like they aren’t as connected as they could be, they make it a point to slow down, prioritize their marriage and meet in the middle."

Fisher, 44, is noted for his active involvement in their family life. Underwood has praised his dedication, stating in a 2023 interview, "Mike as a dad is just super involved in our boys’ lives, very hands on. It takes a team, definitely, to be able to support my crazy life and Mike’s always running around doing a lot of charity things and he’s always meeting with people and he’s on different boards and stuff like that."

"So we’re very much switching off duties as far as taking boys here and there to school and sports and to all the extracurricular activities."

Carrie Underwood's 'American Idol' comeback faced lot of hurdles

Carrie Underwood's return to 'American Idol' was marked by unexpected twists and turns, including a competitive offer from the rival reality show 'The Voice.' Despite these hurdles, Underwood, who first won the show in 2005, has officially signed on to be a judge, stepping in to replace Katy Perry.

On August 1, it was confirmed that the 41-year-old country singer will join Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie as a judge for the upcoming season. Her return, however, faced significant obstacles, including lucrative offers from competing shows and scheduling conflicts.

According to an insider, discussions about Underwood’s return were repeatedly interrupted by various factors such as timing issues and other commitments. Despite these challenges, the CMT Award winner’s loyalty to the show that launched her career never wavered.

“She has been asked to coach on 'The Voice' as well, but it just never seemed right,” the insider added.

“'Even with the opening she has to speak to the same people at NBC by working with 'Sunday Night Football', she has always felt that she needed to be loyal to American Idol.”

The insider disclosed, “She has always monitored the show that started her career, and now she couldn't say no.” 

The source continued, “Carrie feels she is the best star to have come from 'American Idol' and judging on the show to make another superstar will help cement her legacy with the show.”