Carrie Underwood is shutting down rumors of a backstage feud with guest judge Nikki Glaser after fans speculated there was visible tension between the pair on American Idol.
The country music star addressed the online chatter during an appearance on SiriusXM’s “Highway Mornings with Cody Alan,” insisting there was “no beef” between her and Glaser despite social media claims suggesting otherwise.
Host Cody Alan defended Underwood during the interview, saying he didn’t believe she would intentionally be rude to anyone and accused internet users of trying to create drama out of harmless moments.
Underwood agreed, explaining that she has become accustomed to criticism online over the years. She also praised Glaser for stepping into the difficult role of guest judge during the show’s Taylor Swift-themed episode that aired on April 27.
According to Underwood, Glaser handled the judging panel “wonderfully” and offered thoughtful feedback to contestants throughout the night.
Rumors of tension began circulating after viewers claimed Underwood appeared uncomfortable whenever Glaser spoke during the broadcast. Some fans on Reddit, X, and Facebook accused the singer of giving off a “cold vibe,” while others suggested she looked annoyed sitting beside the comedian, who is known to be a devoted Taylor Swift fan.
The speculation added to recent criticism Underwood has faced during her first season as a judge on the longtime singing competition. The singer, who joined the panel in early 2025 alongside Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan, recently faced backlash from viewers who accused her of mocking a contestant’s appearance.
Reflecting on the negativity, Underwood said online criticism has evolved significantly since her own time competing on American Idol two decades ago, noting that internet “meanness” was only beginning during her original season.
Despite the rumors, Underwood made it clear she has nothing but positive things to say about Glaser and dismissed the feud speculation entirely.#newsafro_
