Carrie Underwood is facing mounting criticism from American Idol fans after delivering what many viewers have labeled a “harsh” and “rude” critique of finalist Jamal Roberts during the second night of the show’s Disney Week performances.
The tension arose on Monday night’s episode, as the competition narrowed from five contestants to the final three: Breanna Nix, Slater Nalley, and Jamal Roberts. While the evening was filled with powerful vocals and emotional moments, it was Underwood’s feedback to Jamal that ignited a firestorm on social media.
Carrie Underwood’s Controversial Commentary
Jamal Roberts, 27, impressed with a dynamic R&B rendition of Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell’s classic Ain’t No Mountain High Enough, featured in Disney’s Remember the Titans. His performance was met with a standing ovation from judges Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie, who have been consistent champions of Jamal’s artistry and vocal ability throughout the season.
However, Carrie Underwood remained seated, smiling politely but visibly preparing to deliver a more pointed critique.
While she began by complimenting Jamal’s “incredible voice,” the country superstar pivoted to a criticism that many fans saw as unfair.
“I feel like you missed such an opportunity to move around and entertain,” Underwood said. “We are getting close to the end here, it is time to pull out all the stops. And we know you have that in you. So like pull us all in not just with your voice but everything else going on. Put 100% of yourself into it. Let’s go.”
Fan Reactions: ‘Unfair’ and ‘Rude’
The reaction online was swift and passionate, with fans calling out what they saw as a double standard in Underwood’s judging style.
“Everyone gets to stand still, but he has to move around?? Really?” one viewer tweeted.
“Thought your criticism of Jamal for not ‘moving around’ was unfair, especially when you swooned over John [Foster] who sat in a chair the whole performance,” said another, referencing a standout moment from fellow finalist John Foster.
One fan even noted, “Breanna stands still the whole performance, John stands still. What was the difference? That’s why the next time [Jamal] performed the crowd shut you down with cheers.”
Some viewers didn’t hold back, calling for American Idol producers to reconsider Underwood’s place on the judges’ panel next season.
“She needs to be replaced next year,” one post read, while another added, “You were out of line about Jamal tonight. Be fair and balanced in your feedback. That’s all we ask.”
Others criticized Underwood’s perceived demeanor throughout the performance, with some claiming her expressions toward Jamal were visibly negative.
Carrie Underwood’s First Season as a Judge
This marks Carrie Underwood’s first season as a permanent judge, having taken over the spot previously held by Katy Perry. The country music icon and former Idol winner was expected to bring a unique blend of empathy and experience to the panel. However, her critique of Jamal Roberts has seemingly fractured part of the fanbase, many of whom now question her consistency and fairness.
Despite the backlash, Jamal Roberts moved forward to the Top 3, where he will compete against Breanna Nix and John Foster for the American Idol crown during the Season 23 finale on Sunday, May 18 at 8 PM ET on ABC.
As the finale approaches, all eyes will be on the remaining contestants — and on Carrie Underwood, whose judging debut season has turned into one of the most talked-about aspects of Idol this year.
