Carrie Underwood remains unapologetic as ‘American Idol’ backlash turns into MAGA battleground

Country star shrugs off Hollywood backlash after critics link audience reaction to her 2025 Trump inauguration performance

Carrie Underwood is laughing off the backlash she’s been receiving as a judge on “American Idol.”

In last night’s episode, the country superstar was met with boos from the audience as she delivered pointed critiques to contestants fighting for a spot in the competition show.

“You guys are gonna boo me. You’re gonna boo me,” Underwood told the crowd at one point during the show. “It’s coming. Bring it on. I love it! Your boos are feeding me.”

Underwood also responded on X, sharing a five-word mic drop and several laughing emojis: “Boo me. I don’t care.”

The country star faced audience backlash during Monday’s episode of “American Idol.” (Chris Polk)

Social media quickly lit up with speculation that the boos weren’t about Underwood’s judging, but rather about her perceived political beliefs.

Supporters quickly framed the moment as proof that Underwood — long rumored by critics and fans alike to lean conservative — was being targeted for her views.

One comment read, “Cheering for you. Ignore the Hollywood haters. Your true fans think the world of you.”

“So thankful that you’re an example of a strong female role model who shows girls to grandmas that you don’t have to cower to the mob. God bless you for taking those arrows with grace and a smile on your face,” another fan wrote.

Carrie Underwood is seen performing “America the Beautiful” after President Donald Trump was sworn in at the U.S. Capitol Rotunda on Jan. 20, 2025, in Washington, D.C. (Saul Loeb – Pool/Getty Images)

“Let’s go Carrie! The silent majority LOVE you,” another fan added.

One person wrote, “You’re on the right side of history. Thank you for not selling your soul like the rest of them.”

Others told Underwood that she deserved to be booed.

“I will always like ‘Before He Cheats,’ but you support Tr*mp and so let them boo! You deserve it,” an X user wrote, while another critic added, “Imagine having a song called ‘Love Wins’ and then turning around to support someone who spews hate. Tragic.”

“Carrie Wnderwood being booed for her horrific views should be a message to Hollywood,” another comment read. “Get this maga trash out of here.”

Carrie Underwood received criticism and praise after speaking out about the “American Idol” audience booing her during the show’s taping. (Jason Kempin)

Many critics tied the audience reaction directly to Underwood’s performance at President Donald Trump’s 2025 inauguration.

Underwood sang “America the Beautiful” in the Rotunda of the U.S. Capitol after Trump took the oath of office — and when technical difficulties cut the music, she continued a cappella, earning praise from fans and sharp criticism from others.

The former “American Idol” winner has repeatedly maintained she prefers to steer clear of partisan politics.

Carrie Underwood shrugged off the negative audience reaction both during the show and on social media as it aired. (Eric McCandless/Disney via Getty Images)

When she confirmed she would perform at the inauguration, she wrote, “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,” she added.