Carrie Underwood's Future on American Idol Uncertain Amid Personal Struggles

Carrie Underwood, returning to American Idol as a judge for season 23, has openly discussed experiencing anxiety and a 'flash of fear' when hearing the show's theme music, recalling her own nerves as a former contestant. While she jokes about the 'PTSD' the theme song still brings, she emphasizes that she is enjoying her role as a judge and finds it fun to support contestants from the other side of the table. However, multiple reports indicate that Underwood has struggled with the demands of Hollywood and being away from her family in Nashville, leading to uncertainty about her future on the show. Insiders suggest that while it was initially assumed she would return as a judge next season, both Underwood and the show's producers are now less certain, and her continued participation is in question. Some sources note that her empathy for contestants' stress may influence her tendency to offer more positive feedback. No final decisions regarding her return have been made.