Carrie Underwood discusses online negativity and changing social media culture

Carrie Underwood is speaking candidly about navigating online criticism, reflecting on how digital culture has intensified public scrutiny over the years while also addressing recent speculation about tensions with comedian Nikki Glaser.

The Grammy-winning country star and American Idol judge discussed the topic during an appearance on SiriusXM’s The Highway, where she spoke with host Cody Alan about how social media has changed the way celebrities and public figures are perceived.

Underwood, 43, said online criticism today feels far more immediate and personal than in the early days of her career.

“It’s evolved over time,” she said, recalling her early American Idol days when fan reactions were mostly limited to message boards. “It was kind of the beginning of just meanness online.”

She noted that the rise of social media has blurred the line between public figures and everyday interactions, making commentary more direct and constant.

“Now we live in a world where we forget that we’re watching human beings do things,” she said. “It’s so easy for them to see that. It’s no longer like water cooler chats.”

Underwood added that while online opinions can feel overwhelming, they are something younger generations will learn to navigate with time.

“I promise you someday you won’t care, but right now I know they do care,” she said.

During the same interview, Underwood also addressed speculation about a supposed “beef” with Glaser, dismissing any rumors of tension and pushing back on the idea that conflict is often assumed between women in entertainment.

She emphasized that there was no friction between them, praising Glaser’s professionalism in her role.

“She did such a great job,” Underwood said. “It’s not an easy thing to come sit behind that desk and try to think of constructive things to say.”

The Before He Cheats singer added that narratives of rivalry are often exaggerated when women appear together in public or professional settings.

“People always try to create drama whenever two ladies are in the same room together,” she said.