Ahead of the American Idol season 23 premiere, there are some signs that new judge Carrie Underwood is failing in her new role, so perhaps Katy Perry should return to save the show. Katy exited American Idol after serving as a judge for seven years alongside Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan because she wanted to focus on her own music career again. During her time with the show, Katy was known for her hilarious antics, Disney Night costumes, and spectacular performances, but what stood out the most was how kind and supportive she was toward the American Idol contestants.

Now, for American Idol season 23, Carrie will take Katy’s place at the judging table. Carrie won American Idol season 4 in 2005 and has since gone on to be one of the show’s most successful winners and a global superstar. The Grammy winner has sold 85 million records worldwide and released 28 number one hits, among her many other phenomenal accomplishments. With her experience as an American Idol contestant and winner, she seemed like the perfect judge, but there are some signs that she’s already failing at the role.

Some Fans Are Boycotting American Idol Because Of Carrie Underwood

Carrie Made A Controversial Decision Before The Show’s Season Premiere

Some American Idol fans have vowed to boycott the show after Carrie performed “America the Beautiful” at President Donald Trump’s inauguration. Some people were outraged when they heard that Carrie was going to sing at the event, believing that her decision to perform meant that she fully supported President Trump. In a statement to People, Carrie explained why she performed at the inauguration.

Carrie stated, “I love our country and am honored to have been asked to sing at the Inauguration and to be a small part of this historic event. 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.”

However, some American Idol fans thought that Carrie’s choice to sing at the inauguration meant that she was in full support of President Trump’s MAGA (Make America Great Again) agenda, and they declared that they’d no longer be watching the show because of her. In the comments section of an American Idol Instagram post that shared a preview of season 23, fans debated about Carrie.

One fan wrote, “I will not watch anymore with MAGA Carrie!! I’ve been a fan since the beginning and Kelly Clarkson’s win, but no more. Sad for all fans of the show!,” while another stated, “I won’t be watching maga Carrie!!!! Sad, because I really love the other 2 judges… when she leaves the show then I’ll return..” Another fan said, “1st season since Idol’s inception that my family and I won’t be watching,” while another added, “Nope. I refuse to watch this season because she’s on it.” One fan hoped that Katy would return to the show, writing, “I sure won’t be watching this season. Please come back @katyperry.”

However, there were plenty of fans who said that they’re watching American Idol just because Carrie is on it. One person wrote, “Watching just for Carrie this season!!,“ while another said, “Can’t wait to watch Carrie be a judge! Haven’t watched in a decade but will absolutely be tuning in this season!” Another wrote, “Haven’t watched in years but will be just to see Carrie!,” while someone else added, “Just here for Carrie!” Another enthusiastic fan cheered, “YES CARRIE!!!!!!! QUEEEEEEN!!!!!”

It’s going to be very interesting to see if Carrie’s political choice has an impact on the American Idol season 23 ratings. If the ratings tank, then she might be considered a failure. However, there’s also a chance that Carrie could give the show a boost in the ratings, depending on who decides to watch. Katy was much more liberal than Carrie, who’s known to be conservative, so they might attract different fan bases. If Carrie has alienated a large group of American Idol fans before the show premieres, then she’s already failing as a judge. The American Idol ratings will reveal whether the show’s choice to hire Carrie as a judge was a success.

Carrie Underwood & Katy Perry Are Very Different People

Carrie Brings A Different Energy To American Idol

During her time on American Idol, Katy was known as the edgy judge. From her outrageous fashion to her zany antics, she definitely spiced things up on the show. However, Carrie has a much more subdued personality, and she’ll bring a different energy to the show. While Carrie is just as charming and funny as Katy, she doesn’t push the envelope. Based on the American Idol previews so far, Carrie seems calm and professional, but that could also be interpreted as boring, which will translate to her not being successful as a judge.

While American Idol is definitely about the contestants, the judges are also a main part of the show, and it’s more entertaining to watch when they bring a spark of energy. If Luke, Lionel, and Carrie are all low-energy, then the live shows will become predictable and boring. The fun of having Katy on the show was that she always brought something unexpected to the judges’ table.

Katy Has Hinted That She’d Return To American Idol

Carrie Supposedly Only Signed A One-Year Contract With The Show

Although Katy left American Idol to focus on her new album, 143, and her Lifetimes tour, there are some signs that she might return to the show. In a May 2024 interview with ET, Katy said, “Keep that seat hot. I mean, who knows. I loved everything I got to experience and learn.” In addition, The US Sun reported that a source claimed that Carrie has only signed a one-year American Idol contract, so she’s “not obligated” to come back if the show returns for season 24. This would mean that, if Carrie doesn’t succeed as a judge, then it would be easy to bring Katy back to the show.

Time will tell if Carrie was the right choice to take Katy’s place on American Idol. Although there are signs that she might be failing as a judge already because fans think she might be boring, and they are boycotting the show because of her, many others love her and can’t wait to see the American Idol winner return to the show. Hopes are high for Carrie, and she’s wished all the best as an American Idol judge.