"She'll do ANYTHING TO SABOTAGE" — American Idol fans call out judge Carrie for her comments on Jamal's Ain't No Mountain High Enough

Judge Carrie Underwood and Finalist Jamal Roberts from American Idol Season 23 | Image via Instagram/ @carrieunderwood @officialjamalroberts
Judge Carrie Underwood and Finalist Jamal Roberts from American Idol Season 23 | Image via Instagram/ @carrieunderwood @officialjamalroberts

Jamal Roberts' stirring performance of Remember the Titans' "Ain't No Mountain High Enough" was one of the most talked-about moments of American Idol Season 23 Episode 18. He once again demonstrated why he is regarded as a front-runner in the competition by captivating the audience with his strong stage presence and impeccable vocal control. The performance, which was one of the highlights of the evening, perfectly balanced showmanship and spirit.

The judges gave their feedback after the performance, but Carrie Underwood's criticism sparked the most discussion. She emphasized Jamal's stage presence and general entertainment value while recognizing his unquestionable singing prowess. Given the overwhelmingly positive reaction from the live audience and other judges who appeared to be truly delighted by his delivery, her comments stood out.

However, viewers at home did not receive Carrie's remarks well. Many people vented their annoyance on social media, saying that her criticism was too critical and contemptuous of Jamal's work. They noted that dramatic movement was not necessary for his performance to have an impression and charged the judge with attempting to discredit a formidable competitor.

An admirer of American Idol wrote on X:

"Carrie DEFINITELY DOES NOT LIKE JAMAL AT ALL, and she'll do ANYTHING TO SABOTAGE his win! I pray GOD shuts her down once n for all! Jamal is God's Property! #AmericanIdol #Godsplan"

Another fan posted,

"Carrie Underwood does not like Jamal? I wonder why? #AmericanIdol."
"Dear Carrie, this is flat foot singing! He don’t have to do flips 🙄! Shiiid you didn’t do any when you was on the show. This man is sanging! Vote for Team Jamal Roberts #AmericanIdol," another tweet read.

Many American Idol fans even talked about how Jamal made it to the finalists' list even after Carrie's comment on his performance.

A netizen shared:

"Carrie tried it but Jamal SAFE and in final three. VOTE FOR HIM #AmericanIdol"
"This top three is as it should be! I bet Carrie’s rude comments towards Jamal is what caused the fans to push him on through there. I know it’s what made me vote for him 10 times #AmericanIdol," another X user commented.

"You missed an opportunity" — American Idol judge Carrie Underwood criticised Jamal's Ain't No Mountain High Enough

On American Idol Season 23 Episode 18, Jamal Roberts performed Remember the Titans' Ain't No Mountain High Enough. With the exception of Carrie Underwood, who had a specific criticism regarding his stage presence, both the judges and the crowd were delighted by his soulful vocals and command of the tune.

"We all know your voice is incredible. You do have an incredible gift, but you missed an opportunity to move around and entertain. We know you have that in you. Let's go!" Underwood commented.

Despite her criticism, America voted for Jamal Roberts and made him one of the three finalists of season 23.


Fans can watch the American Idol Season 23 finale on ABC on May 18 at 8/7c.

Edited by Yesha Srivastava