LUKE Bryan has reportedly been standing firmly behind Carrie Underwood backstage at American Idol as she works to adjust to her new role as a judge, a source exclusively told The U.S. Sun.
According to insiders, Luke’s support comes at a crucial time — some within the production feel Carrie’s presence has stirred controversy and even harmed the show’s legacy, upsetting certain fans this season.
Carrie, 42, joined fellow judges Lionel Richie, Ryan Seacrest, and Luke Bryan, 48, for Season 23. Though she’s brought a fresh voice to the panel, reactions have been mixed, with some fans embracing her insights and others questioning if she’s the right fit.
Behind the scenes, though, Luke has emerged as Carrie’s strongest ally.
“Luke’s been her biggest cheerleader,” a production insider shared. “If he hears anyone criticizing her or senses she’s having a hard time, he’s the first to step in and help. He’s always looking out for her and making sure she feels supported.”
The source noted that Lionel Richie enjoys working with Carrie too, but it’s Luke who’s been the most protective and vocal in her defense.
This backing comes as tensions reportedly rise among some crew members, who feel Carrie’s impact on the show has been less than positive.
“At first, the crew thought Carrie was just nervous or reserved,” the insider said. “But over time, they started to feel she’s just distant — even if she doesn’t mean to come across that way. I don’t think she fully realizes how big of an operation this show is, with so many jobs and so much money tied to it.”
While Luke and Carrie have known each other for years through Nashville’s country music circles and award shows, it was American Idol that truly brought them closer.
Earlier this year, Luke spoke about working alongside Carrie on the panel.
“Carrie and I have always been part of the same industry, but we never really got the chance to spend much time together,” Luke explained. “Sitting beside her at the judges’ table, I’ve watched her make the shift from being this American Idol winner and superstar to figuring out how to judge others — and she’s doing well.”
He continued, “There’s no handbook for being a judge on Idol. You have to learn as you go, and there will be ups and downs. But Carrie has the biggest heart. She’s wonderful with the contestants, even when it’s tough to tell someone no.”
Still, not everyone on set shares Luke’s confidence. Some insiders feel Carrie’s tenure has been bumpy.
“I’ve heard some people say Carrie’s approach is disrupting the legacy of the show,” the source claimed. “It started off promising, but as the season’s gone on, she’s rubbed some people the wrong way. The crew initially thought it was just nerves, but now they see her as cold — even if she doesn’t mean to be.”