American Idol Judge Luke Bryan Stands Up for Carrie Underwood Amid Crew Backlash
While Season 23 of American Idol unfolds on-screen with familiar fanfare and fierce competition, off-camera tensions have reportedly started to simmer — and at the heart of the backstage buzz is Carrie Underwood’s role on the judging panel.
The country music powerhouse, who rose to fame after winning the competition in 2005, returned this season not as a contestant but as a judge. But her transition from Idol alum to panelist hasn’t been a smooth one behind the curtain, according to insiders.
Comments Within The Crew
Despite the applause from some fans who welcomed her fresh perspective, others close to the production are allegedly less enthusiastic.
Rumblings from within the crew suggest Underwood’s presence is causing friction, with a few even claiming her influence is “ruining” the show’s long-standing legacy.
“Things started great with her, but the longer she’s been a judge, the more feathers she has ruffled,” a crew member shared.
At first, there was an assumption she might just be shy or getting her bearings. But, as one source put it, “The crew thought at first she was nervous and distant but I think she’s just cold, even if that’s not her intention.”
They continued, “It still hasn’t clicked with her that this is a worldwide franchise with hundreds of jobs and millions of dollars on the line.”
Luke Bryan Becomes Carrie’s Unshakable Ally
Yet in the face of mounting criticism, one familiar face has remained firmly in her corner: Luke Bryan.
The 48-year-old country singer, who shares judging duties alongside Underwood, has reportedly become her most vocal supporter on set.
A production insider revealed, “Luke is her biggest fan and always has her back if he hears something said about her or she’s not getting something. He’s always stepping in to help when she’s struggling or to defend her if someone’s not happy with her.”
While Lionel Richie, another longtime judge, is said to be supportive as well, sources emphasize that it’s Luke who consistently steps up when things get tough. “Lionel seems to enjoy Carrie as well but it’s Luke who really seems to stick up for her the most,” the insider added.
From Nashville Colleagues to Idol Teammates
Their bond, rooted in years of shared experiences in Nashville’s tight-knit music industry, seems to have deepened significantly during their time together at the judge’s table.
Reflecting on their professional relationship, Bryan opened up earlier this year: “Carrie and I had always been in the business together, but we never spent much time together.
So to sit behind the desk and watch her really learn how to transition out of being the winner of American Idol and a superstar to being the judge at the table — she’s doing good.”
Bryan acknowledged that joining the judging panel isn’t something one can prepare for. “The thing about it is Carrie has to kind of learn in real time. You kind of have to learn how to be a judge. It’s not like you can go to American Idol Judging School,” he said.
He noted the emotional difficulty of delivering harsh feedback to aspiring artists. “When she has to say ‘No,’ she’s like, ‘I don’t wanna tell them no.’ But it’s kind of a part [of the job]. It’s hard when you got a kid that’s young and they haven’t found who they are musically.”
Critics Remain Divided as the Show Moves Forward
Despite some of the behind-the-scenes grumbling, Bryan remains confident in Underwood’s ability to grow into the role. “She’s awesome with the kids. She has the best soul and heart. She’s doing a great job and really settling into the judging table.”
As American Idol continues to air Sundays and Mondays at 8 p.m. EST on ABC, only time will tell whether Underwood’s presence as a judge becomes more embraced — or continues to divide opinions backstage. But one thing is certain: Luke Bryan isn’t backing down in his support for his fellow country star and co-judge.
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