‘American Idol’ Showrunner Issues 4-Word Statement Over Carrie Underwood Backlash, Name-Drops Katy Perry

After promoting the return of Carrie Underwood on American Idol for months, fans finally got a taste of her judging abilities when season 23 premiered on March 2nd. Sitting alongside Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie, the three singers fell into the usual routine of laughing, singing together, and helping dreams come true. But while celebrating her debut as a judge on American Idol, the former winner continues to receive some backlash for her recent performance at the presidential inauguration. However, the showrunner of American Idol is here to defend the historic moment. 

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“That Was Her Decision”: American Idol Showrunner Backs Carrie Underwood

While entering his second term as President, Trump welcomed Underwood to perform “America the Beautiful.” With former President Joe Biden standing nearby, the singer powered through the performance even after dealing with technical difficulties. With some unhappy about the performance, showrunner Megan Michaels Wolflick congratulated Underwood on the opportunity. “That was her decision,” she said. “Katy Perry, who was a judge on our show, sang at the last inauguration as well.” 

Back when former President Biden celebrated his victory, Perry performed during his inauguration. Loving to watch the judges expand their careers, Wolflick added, “Isn’t that great that two ‘American Idol’ judges sang at the last two inaugurations?”

[RELATED: Carrie Underwood Lets the Bodies Hit the Floor, Serves as “Hype Girl” for Head-Banging ‘American Idol’ Audition]

Carrie Underwood “Honored” To Perform At Presidential Inauguration

As for Underwood, her performance almost turned sour when she had to perform “America the Beautiful” a capella. A true professional, Wolflick pointed to her years of experience. “She held her own, and she remained cool, calm and collected, and I think a lot of that has to do with ‘Idol’ and all of her live experience, starting at a young age, being on live television for ‘Idol.’”

Not one to apologize for her decision, Underwood considered the performance a highlight of her career. “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.”

Moving past the performance, Wolflick was excited for fans of American Idol to get to see a different side of Underwood. “It’s going to be an amazing discovery for people when they watch Carrie and see how warm and kind and funny she is.” Don’t miss American Idol, airing on Sunday night at 8:00 p.m. ET/PT on ABC. 

(Photographer: Shawn Thew/EPA/Bloomberg via Getty Images)