Carrie Underwood’s First Season As A Judge On American Idol Has Been An Emotional One

This year, Carrie Underwood’s journey on American Idol came full circle. Twenty years after winning the show in 2005, she returned for the first time as a judge, joining Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan.

Since fans had never seen Underwood in a role like this before, no one knew what to expect. But it turns out she’s become the most emotional judge on the panel.

The “Before He Cheats” singer has been brought to tears more than once this season as she watches contestants give it their all. And honestly, who could blame her? Season 23 has been full of touching moments, with several singers sharing powerful stories behind their songs and performances.

The funny thing is, Underwood made it clear at the very beginning that she wasn’t someone who cried easily. Well, she’s definitely proved herself wrong.

Let’s take a look back at every time Carrie Underwood has cried during her first time as a judge… and keep in mind, the season’s only halfway through!

Carrie Underwood Gets Choked Up During Breanna Nix’s Audition While Holding Her Sleepy Baby

Stay-at-home mom Breanna Nix brought her sweet baby boy along with her when she auditioned for American Idol. She chose to sing Underwood’s hit “Jesus Take The Wheel,” and while she sang, her son Emerson sat in Underwood’s lap.

Between hearing her song and holding the sleepy baby, Underwood couldn’t help but get choked up. It quickly became one of the most heartwarming moments of the season.

Samantha Ray Brings Carrie Underwood To Tears With Tribute To Late Sister

When Idol contestant Samantha Ray walked into the room to audition, she delivered a performance of Lee Ann Womack’s “I Hope You Dance.” She chose the song in memory of her sister, who had passed away just a few months earlier.

Her tribute moved all three judges, but Underwood was especially touched. When it was her turn to give feedback, she got so choked up that the judges had to skip her until she could gather herself enough to speak.

Slater Nalley Makes All Three Judges Cry With Original Song

Slater Nally’s audition was one of the first glimpses fans got of Season 23, as it was featured in a sneak peek ahead of the new episodes.

He came in with one of his former teachers, Mrs. Davis, who he considers a mentor in his life. Slater shared that he had written an original song for her son, who had tragically passed away eight years earlier.

By the time he finished his performance, all three judges were visibly moved.

“Even though this was about your son, every single person that hears that can fill in that memory with somebody that’s in themselves,” Underwood said to Davis who was standing alongside Slater his entire audition. “I couldn’t have imagined you doing that any better.”