American Idol judges are raging at Luke Bryan after his problematic comments about Beyoncé.
The country singer, who’s also hosting this year’s CMA Awards, drew ire from the BeyHive (and the rest of the world!) in early October after questioning whether the singer fit in the country genre. As we know, Beyoncé released the long-awaited follow-up to her RENAISSANCE album in February 2024. The project, titled Cowboy Carter, is a full-length country album with features from Willie Nelson, Dolly Parton, and Shaboozey. After her album earned zero CMA nods, Bryan addressed the backlash the show received.
“I’m all for everybody coming in and making country albums and all that,” he said. “But just because she made one … like, just because I made one, doesn’t mean I get nominations. A lot of great music is overlooked. Sometimes you don’t get nominated.” Luke’s comments about Beyoncé, of course, upset a lot of people. He later retracted his remarks, saying he had “respect” for the R&B beauty. However, his apology may not have been enough to get back in her good graces—and this has American Idol producers livid.
Why Are American Idol Judges Upset With Luke Bryan?
According to RadarOnline, the American Idol judges are upset with Luke Bryan over his comments about Beyoncé because they were hoping to have her on the upcoming season. Based on the report, ABC wanted the 32-time Grammy winner to appear as a mentor or performer.
“They would give their eye teeth to get Beyoncé back on the show as a performer and mentor,” an insider said. “Ratings were in the tank last season, and Beyoncé brings a fan base who will watch her.”
“But Luke calling her out pretty much ended any chance of getting her back on Idol. Beyoncé doesn’t go where she doesn’t feel wanted.”
Bryan’s criticism of Bey isn’t the first time she’s been challenged. Before the release of Beyoncé’s chart-topping country album, she addressed the project’s origins on Instagram. “It was born out of an experience that I had years ago where I did not feel welcomed,” she wrote. “The criticisms I faced when I first entered this genre forced me to propel past the limitations that were put on me.”
So, will the queen ever grace an American Idol stage again in the future? The BeyHive will have to wait and see. However, it doesn’t seem likely.
