Carrie Underwood's first season as an American Idol judge is off to an emotional start. During a special preview episode of the ABC singing competition, which aired after the 2025 Academy Awards on Sunday,

ABC allowed Carrie Underwood to reintroduce herself on Sunday, offering curious viewers a taste of what she’ll bring to the judges’ table when American Idol officially returns for Season 23 on March 9 (8/7c).

American Idol judge Carrie Underwood broke down in tears and admitted, "I'm not okay," during an emotional performance by a contestant. The 41-year-old country artist, who rose to fame after winning the singing competition in 2005,