"She does not look or sound good": ‘American Idol’ viewers slam Jessica Simpson’s first live performance in 15 years

Jessica Simpson is officially back in the spotlight. After a 15-year hiatus from live TV performances, the pop star graced the American Idol Season 23 finale stage on Sunday, May 18, reminding everyone why she was once one of the biggest names in pop.

Rocking a sparkling dress with a high slit and rocking a fresh dirty blonde tresses, Simpson kicked off her return with her new single, “Blame Me.”

The surprise came when she sang a duet with eliminated contestant Josh King on her iconic 2005 cover of “These Boots Are Made for Walkin’.” The stage chemistry was undeniable, and King didn’t hold back his excitement afterward, calling it “an absolute honor to perform with Jessica!”

READ: What inspired Jessica Simpson's bold new hairstyle at the American Idol finale? What we know

Meanwhile, Simpson didn’t just show up. She also came prepared.

Sharing a behind-the-scenes sneak peek on Instagram before rehearsal, it was clear the pop princess put in the work. Her effort didn’t go unnoticed either, as the “American Idol” judges — Carrie Underwood, Lionel Richie, and Luke Bryan — all gave her a standing ovation.

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Jessica Simpson’s latest live performance leaves the internet divided: “Absolute train wreck”

Despite the applause, fans had mixed feelings about Jessica Simpson’s stage comeback, lighting up social media with praise and critique.

One viewer didn’t hold back, writing:

“Jessica Simpson was an absolute train wreck on American Idol tonight!!”

Another echoed the sentiment, saying:

“She does not look or sound good. Damn Jessica Simpson #AmericanIdol”

A concerned user added:

“What in the world??? Jessica Simpson? I was scared for Josh. Seriously.”

In a longer post on X, a user speculated about how Simpson secured the performance spot:

“Jessica Simpson still can’t sing and her lip fillers are AWFUL. Literally some of the worse I’ve ever seen. She doesn’t even know what to do with them. I know they feel unnatural on her face. #AmericanIdol she def paid THEM to perform.”

READ: "Easier to access myself artistically": Jessica Simpson opens up about sobriety's impact on songwriting

Despite the critical feedback, others found Simpson’s comeback impressive. One fan wrote:

“#AmericanIdol Did we already know Jessica Simpson could sing? Sorry I don’t think I knew. 15 years- girl, why you hiding that gift?”

Another simply shared:

“Great performance.”

A different user highlighted the significance of her return:

“Love the comeback of Jessica Simpson..it's first time since she paused her music career and sing on stage.”

And one comment focused on her appearance, saying:

“Jessica Simpson looks good”

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Jessica Simpson reveals split from husband Eric Johnson

Jessica Simpson’s first live performance in over a decade came just months after her separation from longtime husband Eric Johnson.

The former couple ended their 10-year marriage in January, following ongoing speculation about their relationship status. Simpson told Us Weekly:

“Eric and I have been living separately navigating a painful situation in our marriage.”

Despite this, their kids remain their priority.

“Our children come first, and we are focusing on what is best for them. We are grateful for all of the love and support that has been coming our way, and appreciate privacy right now as we work through this as a family."

The pair, who began dating in 2010 and married in 2014, share three children: Maxwell, Ace, and Birdie. According to reports, the couple had been privately navigating the separation for some time prior to the official announcement.