Carrie Underwood’s return as an American Idol judge was considered a significant move for the singing competition show, but may not continue beyond one season. Carrie, the winner of Season 4, replaced Katy Perry upon her departure after a multiple-season run.

American Idol viewership dropped by nearly 2 million since its March premiere, with the Easter Gospel episode drawing mixed reactions on and off camera.

As American Idol Season 23 continues on the 2025 TV schedule, more and more contestants are getting cut each week, making the competition all the more brutal. However, it seems some brutal moments mayve taken place off-screen ater Ryan Seacrest made a specific Idol gaffe for what may be the first time ever.