📺 BREAKING: Carrie Underwood’s Fate on American Idol Season 24 Revealed After Jamal Roberts Controversy

Los Angeles, May 14, 2025 — After weeks of heated speculation and social media uproar, ABC has officially confirmed that Carrie Underwood will return as a mentor for American Idol Season 24—despite mounting backlash over her recent comments aimed at finalist Jamal Roberts.

Rumors swirled that Underwood might be axed or step down voluntarily after fans accused her of “tone-deaf criticism” and “favoritism.” But in a bold move, ABC has doubled down on their support for the country music icon.

“Carrie is an essential part of the American Idol family,” an ABC spokesperson said. “We stand behind her role on the show and look forward to her return in Season 24.”

🎯 What Sparked the Backlash?

It all started during the Top 5 Performance Night when Underwood—serving as a guest mentor—gave sharp feedback to fan-favorite Jamal Roberts, a 23-year-old soul singer from Atlanta. While other judges praised Roberts’ passionate performance of a Marvin Gaye classic, Underwood said:

“You’ve got heart, Jamal, but this stage requires more than just emotion—it needs discipline.”

The crowd fell silent. Twitter/X exploded.

@TeamJamalOfficial: “Carrie’s comment was out of line. Jamal gave the performance of the season. #JusticeForJamal”

@CountryGirl4Life: “Sorry but Carrie said what the others were too scared to. This is Idol, not a therapy session.”

Some accused Underwood of undermining a contestant of color, while others argued she was simply upholding high artistic standards.

📊 ABC’s Response: Ratings vs. Reputation

Internally, ABC execs were reportedly divided over how to handle the fallout. With American Idol facing increased scrutiny and its ratings rebounding thanks to Gen Z engagement, the controversy posed both a threat—and an opportunity.

“There was talk of distancing from Carrie,” a production insider revealed. “But ultimately, they knew her star power outweighed the risk.”

Carrie Underwood, a Season 4 winner turned megastar, has been a staple mentor on the show for several seasons and continues to draw a loyal viewership.

💬 Carrie Responds: “My Job Isn’t to Coddle”

Underwood addressed the backlash on her Instagram Stories days after the episode aired:

“I’ve been on that stage. I know how high the stakes are. My job isn’t to coddle—it’s to prepare these artists for the real world. I stand by my words.”

Though unapologetic, her statement was seen by some fans as adding fuel to the fire, while others praised her for “keeping it real in an industry full of sugarcoating.”

🎤 Season 24: What To Expect

With her return confirmed, Underwood is expected to mentor both early-round and finale-week contestants, playing a bigger behind-the-scenes role than in past seasons. ABC is also said to be developing a mini-docuseries following mentors’ interactions with contestants—a likely move to reframe controversial moments as “tough love.”

🧠 Final Thoughts

Carrie Underwood’s return to American Idol is a calculated risk for ABC—one that pits celebrity loyalty against audience sensitivity. Whether viewers embrace her or push back harder next season remains to be seen.