Ryan Seacrest is making it clear that he wants a drama-free environment on the set of American Idol Season 23.

With a significant change in the judging panel, Seacrest is focused on fostering a positive atmosphere and ensuring that everyone works as a team.

This season marks the first major shakeup in the judging lineup since ABC revived the series,

with American Idol winner Carrie Underwood stepping in to replace Katy Perry alongside Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan.

Ryan Seacrest’s Push for a Welcoming Environment

According to an insider who spoke to Life & Style, Seacrest has emphasized the importance of welcoming Carrie with open arms.

“He wants to do everything he can to make sure Carrie avoids any pitfalls and stays golden in the fans’ eyes,” the source revealed. “The best way of doing that is to be supportive, work as a team, and ensure there’s no rivalry or cattiness—he’s made it known that won’t be tolerated.”

Seacrest’s approach reportedly stems from backlash he received regarding what has been called “the Katy situation.” While the exact details of that controversy remain unclear, the American Idol host is determined to prevent any similar issues with Carrie’s transition into the judging role.

Additionally, Seacrest is said to be taking Carrie “under his wing,” not only because they share a strong friendship but also because he hopes to see her return for multiple seasons. “He thinks it’s a huge coup to have one of the show’s biggest success stories front and center at the judges’ table,” the source explained. Seacrest and the show’s producers believe that Carrie’s presence will serve as a major inspiration for contestants throughout the season.

Why Ryan Seacrest Is Taking Special Care of Carrie Underwood

Seacrest has long been known for his protective nature toward contestants and former winners of American Idol. His concern for Carrie’s reception as a judge makes sense, considering she is one of the show’s most successful alums. However, the controversy surrounding her recent performance at a U.S. presidential inauguration has created some challenges, leading to speculation about how audiences will respond to her as a judge.

Unlike her predecessor Katy Perry—who had an outspoken and energetic presence—Carrie has a more reserved personality. This has led to concerns that she might struggle in the judging role, making it even more critical for the team to support her transition. ABC is eager to avoid any unnecessary drama, especially given the high stakes of maintaining the show’s ratings.

How American Idol Has Evolved to Prioritize Harmony

Over the years, American Idol has shifted its focus from the drama between judges to a more contestant-centered approach. In earlier seasons, conflicts among the panelists, particularly with Simon Cowell’s brutally honest critiques, became a major part of the show’s appeal. While there were occasional disagreements, there was no real rivalry between the judges.

One notable exception occurred in Season 12 when Mariah Carey and Nicki Minaj clashed publicly throughout the competition. Their ongoing feud overshadowed the contestants and became one of the most talked-about aspects of the season. Since then, American Idol has made a conscious effort to cultivate a more positive and constructive environment among the judges.

Given the camaraderie that already exists between Carrie, Luke, and Lionel, it seems unlikely that this season will see any major conflicts. Luke and Carrie share a background in country music and have always supported each other, while Lionel is known for his warm and welcoming personality. Seacrest’s insistence on teamwork and mutual respect only reinforces the show’s commitment to avoiding unnecessary drama.

What This Means for the Future of American Idol

Carrie Underwood stepping into the judges’ role is a major moment for American Idol, and Seacrest is doing everything in his power to make her transition a smooth one. The hope is that having a former winner on the panel will serve as a major source of motivation for contestants, who will see firsthand what is possible through the competition.

As the longtime host of American Idol, Seacrest is deeply invested in the show’s success. Ensuring that the judges work well together is a top priority, as their dynamic plays a key role in keeping audiences engaged. If Carrie, Luke, and Lionel can establish a strong connection and provide valuable feedback to contestants, Season 23 could be one of the most memorable seasons yet.

Although concerns about Carrie’s personality and past controversies linger, her reputation as a world-class performer remains intact. If Seacrest and the American Idol team can navigate any potential challenges and keep the show running smoothly, the addition of Carrie to the judging panel could prove to be a winning move for the franchise.