American Idol Producers say Carrie Underwood’s Inauguration Performance Might Make Contestants Feel Uncomfortable

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The delicate souls of Hollywood are up in arms because Carrie Underwood simply sang at President Donald Trump’s Inauguration. Specifically, producers of the mega-hit singing contest show, on which Underwood got her start to stardom, “American Idol” are reportedly concerned about potential backlash.

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Underwood, 41, sang America the Beautiful as Trump, 78, was sworn in on Monday, a move that has drawn criticism and sparked debates over the show’s inclusivity and values, with many calling for a boycott of her upcoming debut as a judge on the long-running ABC show.

Insiders say her involvement with the “highly divisive” event could make contestants and staff uncomfortable and negatively affect the show’s reputation and ratings. “Idol contestants come from a wide range of diverse backgrounds, and so do the people who work on the show,” a source told DailyMail.com. “There are concerns that her apparent political stance might make some contestants feel uncomfortable.”

Producers are reportedly grappling with how this decision aligns with the show’s commitment to diversity and inclusion, which has been emphasized since its reboot on ABC in 2018. “Her apparent support for Trump doesn’t align with the show’s values of inclusivity and diversity,” the source added.

The controversy may also create friction among the judges. Lionel Richie, a staunch liberal, reportedly does not share Underwood’s views and has openly opposed Trump. “This could create some tension,” the source noted. Judges are typically advised to avoid becoming political figures, but political moments have occurred in the past. Yet no one seems to be worried about how “staunch liberal” Richie may make people feel.

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Luke Bryan faced backlash in 2022 for inviting Republican politician Ron DeSantis onstage during a Florida concert. At the time, Bryan clarified that the gesture was aimed at raising awareness for disaster relief efforts, not political endorsement.

Carrie Underwood has responded to the criticism by emphasizing the unifying nature of her performance. “I am humbled to answer the call at a time when we must all come together in the spirit of unity and looking to the future,” she said.

An insider close to Underwood explained that she did not view the performance as a political act but rather as an opportunity to celebrate America on a large platform. “She does her music for everyone, and she also knows many of her fans will be watching the inauguration,” the source said. “This was a no-brainer for her, as she feels more good will come from it despite the criticism.”

The source also noted that Underwood, a former American Idol winner, sees the performance as a way of giving back to the country and fans who helped launch her career. “America made her dreams come true, so this is her way of giving back to the country she loves and which has supported her forever,” the insider concluded.

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