Despite growing backlash aimed at new judge Carrie Underwood, American Idol continues to draw in millions of viewers — and its recent Disney Week episodes may be its biggest success yet.

Ratings Rise to Over 5 Million

According to industry data, the Sunday, May 11 episode of American Idol raked in 5,272,000 viewers, one of the highest-rated episodes of the season. The following night, on Monday, May 12, another 4.45 million tuned in — proof that the show’s momentum is only growing.

This viewership surge comes during a critical phase in Season 23, as the show narrows its contestants down to the final three: Breanna Nix, Jamal Roberts, and Slater Nalley.

The current record-holding episode remains the March 2 premiere special, which peaked at 5.9 million viewers.

 Carrie Underwood Faces Backlash from Viewers

Carrie Underwood, who joined the judging panel this season following Katy Perry’s departure, is facing mounting criticism from viewers who are calling for her removal.

During the May 12 Disney Night episode, Carrie sparked fan outrage after offering a harsh critique of finalist Jamal Roberts, who delivered a fiery rendition of “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough.”

While Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie gave Jamal a standing ovation, Carrie stayed seated and criticized his stage presence.

“I feel like you missed such an opportunity to move around and entertain,” she said.

“We’re getting close to the end — it’s time to pull out all the stops.”

“We know you have that in you… let’s go!”

But many viewers saw the feedback as unfair and hypocritical.

 What Fans Are Saying

Social media quickly lit up with passionate responses from viewers:

“You were out of line about Jamal tonight. Everyone else gets to stand still — but he has to move? Really?”

“Your comment wasn’t fair. Breanna and John also stood still. But only Jamal got called out?”

“You swooned over John when he sat in a chair, but scolded Jamal? That’s not consistent.”

“Carrie, please don’t return as a judge next season.”

Some fans even went as far as to demand:

“She needs to be replaced next year.”

 Trouble Behind the Scenes?

The drama doesn’t end with fan feedback.

According to reports, American Idol production insiders believe Carrie’s influence is “damaging” the show’s legacy. Her alleged push for a faith-based Easter Sunday episode also caused internal friction, with some staff members labeling the theme as inappropriate for the format.

While the special resonated with some audiences, crew members reportedly voiced concerns about Carrie’s direction and priorities as a judge.

Adding to the tension, insiders claim that Carrie was not the first choice to replace Katy Perry. A source revealed that producers had spoken to multiple A-list artists before landing on her, and the decision was not unanimous.

 The Show Goes On

Despite the controversy, American Idol is thriving in the ratings — and the stakes are higher than ever.

The Top 3 finalists have been officially confirmed:

Jamal Roberts

Breanna Nix

Slater Nalley

The Season 23 grand finale kicks off this Sunday, and if the numbers are any indication, it could be one of the most-watched endings in years.

 Final Thought

Love her or not, Carrie Underwood has certainly sparked conversation — and all eyes will be on the finale to see how this season ends and whether she’ll return for another.

Tune in Sunday at 8 PM ET on ABC for the American Idol Season 23 finale — and see who takes the crown.

Share this story with fellow Idol fans and let us know: Should Carrie stay or go? Sound off in the comments!