Carrie doesn't have a ton of experience doing the work required of an Idol judge, but she's been doing her best to keep up with Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie. Despite knowing that she's a former American Idol winner, Carrie's been trying to blend in with the rest of the in order to make a better impression on the contestants, though it hasn't been working well.

When it was announced Carrie would be taking over for Katy Perry after her departure post-American Idol season 22, some were excited to have a former winner on the judge's , but others struggled to see the vision of Carrie judging contestants. While she's become one of the most successful performers that Idol's launched to date, Carrie hasn't done much outside of her lane after winning American Idol season 4. Throughout her career, Carrie's become a full-blown country megastar who's occasionally appeared on the show to mentor contestants or perform, but she hasn't proven to be a true mentor before.

With Carrie coming into American Idol season 23 as a judge, many felt like it would be great to see a former winner back in her old stomping grounds. The early episodes of the season made it clear that Carrie wasn't doing enough to differentiate her voice from Luke or Lionel's, but she worked hard over the course of the season to be a judge on her own . Unfortunately, doing things on her own has changed American Idol in a few different ways, some of which may not be reversible even if Carrie doesn't choose to come back.

6 Carrie Will Attract More Country Hopefuls To Audition

The Next Wave Of Idol Hopefuls May Not Be As Diverse

Throughout American Idol season 23, especially during the early moments of the season, Carrie was one of the biggest draws of the series. While viewers often find themselves watching the series for performances, looking for new talent, some of the show's draw comes from the judges of the series, as well. Carrie became one of the biggest draws of the series prior to American Idol season 23's premiere, especially after viewers learned she would be taking the eccentric Katy's place. While some were nervous about the shift, others were hopeful that she would offer a fresh take on the show.

The audition process of the season typically sees a variety of performers, hopeful to break into the industry with help from the professionals on the judge's if possible. While there are always a lot of different styles of performers on the show, there's been a rise in country music stars in the last few years after Luke ed the series. Now with Carrie on the judge's , there is likely to be an even higher number of country auditioners on American Idol season 24. While they're all welcome, Carrie could encourage an even larger country presence in the future.

5 Carrie Leading With Faith May Push Viewers Away

She May Be Off-Putting To Others

Even prior to American Idol, Carrie always been open about her Christian faith, as it's a core part of her identity as a person and performer. While her authenticity has earned her a loyal fanbase, it could end up presenting challenges if her beliefs become more prominent during her time on American Idol. With Carrie sharing her own faith-based music on the series and seemingly pushing for a night of performances about religion on Easter Sunday, some struggled to get behind Carrie's beliefs becoming prominent on screen. While it may be unintentional on Carrie's part, it could create a divide.

American Idol has traditionally appealed to a diverse audience, but religion and faith has never been part of the show. While faith-inspired performances have always been welcome on the stage, the show strives to remain inclusive and accessible to fans of all backgrounds. Carrie’s strong emphasis on her belief system could alienate viewers who don’t share the same beliefs or who prefer to keep religion separate from entertainment. While her influence may uplift certain contestants and resonate with faith-based viewers, there’s a risk that others could feel excluded or disconnected from American Idol season 24 if she continues to push.

4 Carrie Will Encourage Other Past Idols To Participate

She Could Bring Back Past Favorites

Carrie's return to American Idol could open the door for more former contestants to re the franchise in meaningful ways, even if they aren't stepping up to become judges. As one of the most successful winners in the show’s history, Carrie has major influence to the Idol brand. Generally, Carrie's presence may inspire fellow alumni to return, whether to mentor contestants, perform, or even serve as guest judges on American Idol. While some are wary of Carrie's presence, her involvement signals to other former Idols that the show values its legacy. She could easily encourage other standout past contestants to make appearances.

While American Idol has always welcomed contestants and winners from the past back, it's possible that stars like Kelly Clarkson, Jordin Sparks, or Jennifer Hudson could see Carrie's return as a sign they'd be welcome back, too. Alumni engagement would add depth to American Idol's struggling run, reminding viewers of its rich history while offering contestants valuable insights from those who’ve walked the same path. It could also tap into the nostalgia that longtime fans of the show have, which could help with ratings. Carrie's influence gives American Idol a higher likelihood to see big name stars .

3 Carrie’s Judging Style Could Cause Others To Be More Firm

They May Feel The Need To Pick Up Her Slack

As Carrie has made her way through American Idol season 23, her judging style has become an issue for viewers and contestants. While her judging hasn't been entirely problematic, it's been characterized by kindness, encouragement, and a reluctance to offer harsh criticism rather than being constructive. Carrie's comionate approach may reflect her ive nature, but it inadvertently shifts the overall tone of the judging . With Carrie leaning into gentle, often overly positive , her fellow judges Luke and Lionel may feel pressure to balance the dynamic by becoming more critical or assertive in what they say to the contestants.

Although the contrast between Carrie's kind-hearted judgement and the rest of the judging on the show could balance things out, Luke and Lionel having to carry the critical commentary isn't a long-term plan for Idol. With contestants looking for from all three of the judges, Carrie shouldn't be allowed to soften her true feelings or push the need for commentary onto her fellow judges just because she doesn't want to be critical. While it may be hard for her to own up to being tough on contestants, her American Idol colleagues deserve to have her help with the load.

2 Carrie Will Draw Out The Other Current Judges Faults

She's Made The Other Judges Look Worse

While Carrie's become a different style of judge on American Idol, her addition to the judge's table has unintentionally made both Luke and Lionel wear their faults on their sleeves when they're judging the competition. Carrie's a natural born performer, and while that's not up for debate, her ability to be critical about performances that aren't her own isn't something she's been able to figure out just yet. As Carrie has moved through American Idol season 23, she's struggled with giving critical , putting that weight on Luke and Lionel's shoulders. Carrie's performance has brought out all their faults.

With Carrie giving mostly generic praise and slight commentary, she's put the difficult parts of judging on Luke and Lionel, who aren't always accustomed to doing that much on the show. Luke, who was often giving the soft-style criticism Carrie's now handling, has been more critical in his approach, which has proven that he's not great at giving tough . Meanwhile, Lionel's criticisms have been somewhat standard, but he hasn't been able to offer the same insights he has in past years piggybacking off Katy. Carrie's presence has highlighted the 's weakness on Idol, making it clear the show needs changed.

1 Carrie’s Measured Distance Could Put Contestants Off Their Game

She's Not A Proactive Judge

While Carrie seems to be more reserved than the other judges on the , it's become clear that her distanced, measured responses to American Idol contestants performances may not be the most helpful. Carrie's emotionally reserved judging style may unintentionally put contestants off their game, leading them to perform a bit more fearfully than they would otherwise. Unlike Luke or Lionel, who are typically full of energy and enthusiasm whether a performance is good or bad, Carrie tends to maintain her professionalism no matter what. Although it's nice to see her be carefully polished, the reserved nature can be tough.

For American Idol contestants who are stepping onto an incredibly high-stakes stage, taking emotional cues from the judges is often what keeps them moving forward. Carrie can offer some praise during her time on the judge's , her tone often reads as neutral, gives vague , and leaves the contestants unsure about how their performances went. While it may not be the worst thing in the world for American Idol's stars, the uncertainty Carrie leaves them with difficulty that could shake the self-assurance of those looking for her .

American Idol airs Sundays & Mondays at 8 p.m. EDT on ABC.

Source: Carrie Underwood/Instagram