Carrie Underwood's Face Says It All: Accusations of Shade Toward American Idol Winner Spark Viewer Outrage

Carrie Underwood, the former “American Idol” darling, frustrated many fans throughout the season with her apparent lack of enthusiasm for certain contestants, a sentiment that resurfaced when Jamal Roberts was crowned the season 23 champion on May 18. Underwood, who won the series in 2005, returned as a judge alongside Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan. While both fellow judges erupted in applause for Roberts, viewers noted Underwood remained seated during his rendition of Anthony Hamilton’s “Her Heart.” Critics online questioned her sincerity, remembering her previous comments suggesting Roberts should engage more on stage while favoring another performer’s stillness. Although she later celebrated his victory on Instagram, skeptics doubted her enthusiasm. An insider mentioned that her position as a judge had been contentious, prompting calls for her removal.