Tensions are reportedly brewing in the "American Idol" universe following the show's new judge Carrie Underwoodperformance at the inauguration of President Donald Trump.

Underwood performed an a cappella rendition of "America the Beautiful" after an initial technical glitch and was given a standing ovation afterward.

However, her decision to perform for Trump has seemingly sparked controversy for "American Idol" over its pursuit of LGBTQ representation.

Although Underwood felt honored to perform at the presidential inauguration, her decision to do so for Donald Trump was polarizing.

Before agreeing to the inaugural performance, Underwood was announced as a judge for the 23rd season of "American Idol," which premieres March 9. The show is known for its inclusivity and diversity and has strengthened its efforts to improve LGBTQ representation.

However, some saw Underwood's decision to perform for Trump as an obvious political stance, and the show's producers know the impact it could have.

For example, there were calls for Underwood to boycott her judging debut on the show she won in season four.

Insiders have now claimed that the contestants may feel "uncomfortable" with Underwood as a judge, potentially reducing the show's ratings.

the source said Daily Mail"Idol contestants come from a wide range of different backgrounds, as do the people who work on the show."

They added: "There are concerns that her overt political stance could make some contestants uncomfortable."

The insider explained that there was concern that the backlash against Underwood "could affect ratings," adding, "Her apparent support for Trump is inconsistent with the show's values ​​of inclusivity and diversity."

According to a source, there could be tension between Lionel Richie and Underwood.

They said: "Lionel Richie, who is very liberal, may not see eye to eye with Carrie's views which could create some tension. He has never and never will support Trump."

The insider explained that changes made to "American Idol" since Season 16 in 2018 mean that the show's judges are "generally advised to avoid becoming political figures."

However, that didn't stop them from expressing their views like Luke Bryan did in 2022 when he invited Republican politician Ron DeSantis on stage at a concert in Florida.

After facing backlash for his actions, Bryan defended himself by explaining that he was raising awareness to help victims of the natural disaster.

When asked if Underwood is considering her role on "American Idol" and how her inauguration performance might affect the show, the source described the general opinion of the country singer.

They said: "The general consensus is that Carrie should have thought about the show's culture and network values ​​before jumping into such an important role while under contract."

The insider's revelations are similar to those of another source, who said The US Sun that "American Idol" producers were reportedly on the verge of Underwood's performance causing backlash and lower ratings after the inauguration.

A source said: "I don't think anyone on the show knew that Carey was singing at the inauguration before she came out, it caught them all off guard."

They added: "It doesn't conflict with any of her Idol taping dates and it's before this season airs, so it doesn't conflict with anything in her contract. But there are producers who don't approve and are concerned."

The insider further revealed that "American Idol" producers were afraid that fans might boycott the show.

They said: "Many viewers are already talking about a boycott, whether it's true or just noise will be seen after the ratings, but the conversation it's bringing Idol into now is not what the producers want. They don't want the show to become political, they want to be an escape from that."

Carrie Underwood's Inauguration Day performance couldn't have gotten off to a worse start as she had to wait a long time to start due to a technical problem preventing music from playing in the background.

Seeing that the music wouldn't come on, Underwood invited the audience to sing along with her. She said, "If you know the words, help me here."

With the crowd behind her, the "Jesus, Take the Wheel" singer performed a cappella, showing just how incredibly talented she is.

After her performance, fans made their way to X to greet her. Many of them described her glowingly, using words like "Incredible", "Class Act" and "One of the greats".