LOS ANGELES, CA – Reports have emerged suggesting that country music superstar and American Idol judge Carrie Underwood was a key driving force behind the show’s recent three-hour faith-based Easter special, titled “Songs of Faith,” which aired on Sunday, April 20, 2025.
According to sources speaking to The US Sun, Underwood was a “big advocate” for the special and “pushed to make this night happen.” The episode featured performances of faith-inspired songs by the Top 20 contestants, as well as guest appearances from gospel artists like CeCe Winans, Brandon Lake, and The Brown Four, alongside performances from the judges themselves, including Underwood’s rendition of the hymn “How Great Thou Art.”
However, the decision to dedicate a significant portion of the show to a faith-based theme on Easter reportedly caused some unease among the American Idol crew. The source stated that the crew was “polarized” by the concept, with some feeling it was “not completely appropriate.” These individuals reportedly felt uncomfortable voicing their concerns, while others on the crew saw no issue with the special, particularly as it did not focus on a specific denomination.
Despite any internal reservations, the special aired as planned, with Underwood’s involvement seemingly crucial to its realization. The source indicated that while fellow judges Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan were on board, Underwood was the “most vocal” in ensuring the Easter-themed episode came to fruition.
The report suggests that Underwood’s strong faith played a significant role in her desire for the special. The source mentioned that she felt it was important to have a gospel night, especially after moving to Los Angeles where she reportedly feels less able to openly express her religious beliefs.
This marks the first time American Idol has dedicated an entire episode to faith-based music in this manner. While contestants have performed such songs in the past, the Easter special represented a significant thematic shift for the show. The reception from viewers has been mixed, with some appreciating the celebration of faith and others potentially feeling it was exclusionary or not in line with the show’s usual format.
The American Idol season continues, and it remains to be seen if this faith-based special will influence future themes or contestant song choices.