Tension Soars After Disney Night as Fans Challenge Carrie Underwood’s Judging of Jamal Roberts
As American Idol Season 23 races toward its thrilling finale, the spotlight isn’t just on the contestants — it’s on the judges. Following Monday’s Disney Night, Carrie Underwood found herself at the center of a heated fan backlash, with many accusing her of delivering an unfairly harsh critique to Top 3 finalist Jamal Roberts.
The live episode saw two contestants sent home, narrowing the competition to Breanna Nix, Jamal Roberts, and Slater Nalley. But it was Carrie’s pointed feedback to Jamal’s performance that ignited a storm of controversy among viewers — sparking passionate debates about fairness and judging style.
Jamal Roberts’ “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” Earns Standing Ovations — All Except From Carrie Underwood
Jamal Roberts, a 27-year-old physical education teacher and devoted father of three, delivered a powerful and soulful rendition of “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough,” a classic famously tied to Disney’s Remember the Titans.
The crowd erupted in applause, with judges Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie rising to their feet in appreciation of Jamal’s commanding stage presence and heartfelt energy.
But Carrie Underwood stayed seated — and when it was her turn to give feedback, she didn’t hold back.
Carrie’s Feedback: Tough Love or Unfair Criticism?
Starting on a positive note, Carrie praised Jamal’s “incredible voice.” Yet her tone soon shifted, focusing on what she felt was a missed opportunity.
“I feel like you missed such an opportunity to move around and entertain,” she said bluntly.
“We’re getting close to the end here. It’s time to pull out all the stops. Pull us in — not just with your voice but with everything else. Let’s go.”
Fans Fire Back: “Carrie Was Out of Line”
The internet erupted after Carrie’s critique, with fans flooding social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Facebook to voice their disappointment — and outright outrage.
“Please be fair and balanced in your feedback. That’s all we ask.”
“You were out of line about Jamal tonight. Everyone else stands still. Why does he have to move?”
“That criticism wasn’t fair — Breanna and John both stood still too!”
“When Jamal performed next, the crowd shut Carrie down with cheers. That says it all.”
“She needs to be replaced next season!”
A Double Standard?
Viewers quickly pointed out what many saw as inconsistency. Carrie had praised John Foster for his emotional, seated performance — yet expected Jamal to bring more physical energy.
“You swooned over John sitting in a chair,” one fan tweeted, “but criticized Jamal for not moving around? That’s not fair.”
Others accused Carrie of favoritism and harsh delivery, sparking debates about fairness and professionalism.
Will This Shake Up the Finale?
With the Season 23 finale airing Sunday, May 19 at 8 PM ET on ABC, the judges’ opinions might influence fan voting. Jamal Roberts remains a top contender — and this backlash could only strengthen his supporters’ resolve.
Love Carrie’s tough-love style or think she crossed the line? One thing’s certain:
The American Idol finale just got a whole lot more intense.
🎥 Catch Jamal’s full performance and decide — was Carrie right to push him harder, or did she go too far?
