When Carrie Underwood was announced as the newest judge on American Idol, fans of the show were ecstatic. After all, knowing her career started with winning the competition show back in 2005, having her come back to judge is a true full-circle moment. But, as the dust begins to settle on the announcement, it seems nerves are starting to bubble up to the surface.
According to a new source for Life & Style, Underwood is feeling a mix of emotions right now. “Carrie is excited, but now that it’s official, she’s stressed out and under a lot of pressure,” an insider told the outlet. “Though she isn’t admitting it, Carrie thinks she may have taken on too much.”
As the new judge, Underwood will have a lot to do. In addition to mentoring artists from all over the nation, traveling all over the country for tapings, and doing some extensive shifts, Underwood will also become a TV personality, entertaining everyone who tunes in.
“Haters claim Carrie will have a hard time living up to Katy [Perry], who was outrageous and a great mentor,” the insider said of perhaps Underwood’s biggest concern. Perry judged the show for the past seven seasons.
“Carrie is desperate to prove she will not only thrive but can also bring in the ratings,” the insider added.
In addition to Underwood’s concerns, her husband Mike Fisher, who she’s been married to since 2010, is reportedly worried too. “He is a little concerned she may perform poorly under pressure,” the source said.
“Mike didn’t want her to do Idol initially, but she insisted, and the paycheck is substantial,” the source said. Reports say Underwood is cashing in an estimated $25 million for each season.
“Mike is worried Carrie won’t be able to balance her life, commuting between Tennessee and L.A,” the source said. As a reminder, Underwood and Fisher share sons Isaiah, 9, and Jacob, 5, at their Tennessee home. “It’s a huge adjustment, more than her residency in Las Vegas, which they never saw eye to eye on, either.”
And as the couple struggles with some pre-season jitters, it seems close friends are thinking she’ll either sink or swim. “Carrie will either rise to the occasion and shine brightly, like she’s usually done in the past, or she’ll sink under the enormous expectations,” the insider said. “She’s got her fingers crossed, and she’s praying a ton that this works out, but only time will tell.” We just hope Fisher’s by her side cheering her on no matter what.
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