Carrie Underwood is still getting used to life as a judge on American Idol season 23. She’s had an incredible career as a country music star, but now, instead of competing, she’s the one giving feedback. And honestly? The transition hasn’t been the easiest.
In a recent episode of her web series Idol To Icon, she got real about how her time as an American Idol winner has shaped her approach to judging.
“It’ll help me be a better judge,”
she said. She looked back on her season 4 journey, remembering the nerves, the pressure, and even that moment when she messed up lyrics during Hollywood Week. Now, she wants to use those experiences to really connect with the contestants.
A lot of fans were excited to see a former American Idol champ at the judges’ table. But not everyone is sold on her new role just yet. Carrie’s been pretty emotional and, sometimes, a little too tough. She knows she has some work to do. Now, she’s figuring out how to keep it real without being too harsh.
Carrie Underwood’s journey as an American Idol judge
Becoming a judge is no easy task, even for a former winner. Carrie Underwood stepped in after Katy Perry left in season 22. Her addition sparked both excitement and doubt among fans.
Many expected her to be kind and supportive because of her history with the show. However, she admits her emotions sometimes take over.
“It’s tough to watch people go through what I went through,”
she shared. The contestants experience intense pressure, and Carrie understands that firsthand. While she strives to be fair, she’s still finding the right balance in her feedback.
Early reactions to her judging style have been mixed. Some fans appreciate her honesty. Others feel she’s been too harsh. As she continues in her role, Carrie is actively working on refining her approach. She wants contestants to feel supported while receiving constructive criticism.
How Carrie’s American Idol past shapes her judging
Carrie’s experience as a contestant is both an advantage and a challenge. She won American Idol in 2005 and knows exactly what it takes to succeed. However, she also remembers the nerves, the doubts, and the pressure of standing in front of a panel of judges.
“I remember feeling like my entire future was on the line with every performance,”
Carrie revealed. This unique perspective allows her to empathize with contestants. But it has also made her hyper-aware of their mistakes. She doesn’t want to sugarcoat her critiques but also doesn’t want to discourage talented singers from pursuing their dreams.
Her goal is to use her past to help guide contestants through the competition. She hopes to offer meaningful advice. By drawing from her experiences, she wants to prepare them for a career beyond American Idol.
Adjusting to the judging panel
Becoming a judge on American Idol means taking on a very different role than being a contestant. Carrie once stood nervously in front of Simon Cowell, Paula Abdul, and Randy Jackson. Now, she is in a position of authority.
At times, the power has been overwhelming.
“It’s a weird shift,”
she admitted.
“I remember how it felt to be on that stage. Now I’m the one making decisions about someone else’s future.”
Carrie’s transition hasn’t been seamless. Some viewers feel she’s been overly critical. Others believe she brings a fresh perspective to the panel. Either way, she is committed to improving. She wants to become the judge she wished she had when she was a contestant.
As American Idol season 23 progresses, Carrie Underwood is focused on evolving as a judge. She knows she has room to grow. She is taking feedback from viewers and contestants seriously.
“I’m learning every day,”
she shared.
“I want to be the best judge I can be. I want to make sure these contestants feel heard and supported.”
Carrie’s journey as a judge is still unfolding. She has faced challenges. But she remains dedicated to making American Idol a positive and transformative experience for the contestants.