Carrie Underwood ‘upset’ over treatment at Trump’s inauguration
Reports suggest the country star was frustrated with wardrobe, staging, and technical issues behind the scenes
Carrie Underwood’s performance at Donald Trump’s inauguration didn’t go as planned, and insiders claim the singer was “furious” about several behind-the-scenes mishaps, earning her the nickname “inauguration day diva.”
On January 20, the country superstar took the stage in Washington, D.C., to sing America the Beautiful alongside the Armed Forces Chorus and the U.S. Naval Academy Glee Club. However, technical difficulties disrupted the performance when the accompanying music failed to play.
Underwood, 41, quickly adapted, encouraging the audience to join her in an impromptu a cappella rendition of the patriotic song. The moment showcased her vocal talent and ability to handle pressure, earning praise from fans.
‘Inauguration day diva’ complaints emerge
Despite her professionalism onstage, reports suggest Underwood was unhappy with several aspects of the event. According to The Daily Mail, she was boasting to “anyone who wanted to listen that Trump called her personally to ask her to perform.”
However, the invitation didn’t spare her from frustrations behind the scenes. A source told The U.S. Sun that Underwood was disappointed with her wardrobe, expecting a designer gown but instead having to wear an off-the-rack dress.
“She was expecting to be dressed in something custom and at the very least something couture,” the insider said. “That also did not happen. Carrie ended up wearing a $300 dress off the rack and discounted shoes.”
Limited entourage and security demands
Another issue arose when the event was moved indoors, forcing organizers to limit the number of guests performers could bring. This reportedly upset Underwood, who had planned for a large entourage.
“She hired an army of security…and demanded she be allowed a team of 20. She of course demanded tickets for her family and friends on top of that as well,” a separate source told The Daily Mail.
Carrie Underwood ‘made diva demands’ for Donald Trump inauguration performancehttps://t.co/2ye4rydD1l pic.twitter.com/T3oPMB9hwF
— Mirror Celeb (@MirrorCeleb) January 21, 2025
Staging complaints and performance anxiety
Underwood was also reportedly unhappy with the staging of her performance, feeling it lacked the grandeur given to other artists at past inaugurations.
“Carrie was dissatisfied with her performance at the event, primarily due to the limited space she was given, which left her feeling cramped and uncomfortable,” the source claimed. “Her anxiety was high throughout the performance, and she felt that she was not afforded the same level of respect or admiration that previous performers, such as Beyoncé and Lady Gaga, had received.”
The tipster continued, “She is used to playing at massive venues with a stage to herself. She was not given a stage or a platform even. She felt like she was literally just in a room with people all around her and a microphone. This threw off the acoustics.”
The insider added, “She felt as if she was ushered in and out and had a mini hissy fit afterwards.”
A performance to remember
Despite the reported behind-the-scenes drama, Underwood delivered a memorable vocal performance, proving why she remains one of country music’s biggest stars. While some may label her reactions as “diva” behavior, others might argue that she was simply frustrated by unexpected changes.
What do you think? Was Carrie Underwood justified in her complaints, or did she overreact? Share your thoughts!