Carrie Underwood is no Simon Cowell — and the current contestants on “American Idol” are likely very grateful for that. Having weathered Cowell’s often brutal critiques of contestants during his tenure on the judges’ panel years ago, Underwood — who won the show in 2005 — prides herself on being a kinder, gentler judge. alongside Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie.
Proof in point? Several of the remaining season 24 singers have revealed that Underwood gifted them with Tiffany jewelry and personalized, handwritten notes behind the scenes. Hours before the live episode on April 13, 2026, contestant Hannah Harper shared a social media post with a photo of her gift package from the country superstar, including an iconic Tiffany blue jewelry box.
In the caption, Harper, wrote, “Didn’t think my first piece of @tiffanyandco jewelry would come from @carrieunderwood … 😭 Truly, the part that got me the most was the handwritten note. That meant more than anything. Just her taking the time to do that… it says everything about who she is. Y’all, she’s as down-to-earth and genuine as they come. Just a good, kind human. I love her dearly 🤍”
Carrie Underwood Told Hannah Harper She’s an ‘Inspiration’ to ‘Moms Everywhere’
Underwood has occasionally drawn boos from the audience for her light critiques of season 24 contestants, but she always makes sure to give the singers some encouraging words, too. That has clearly continued behind the scenes, given that she took time to write a personal note to each of the Top 11 contestants — along with gifting them jewelry — before they hit the stage on April 13.
The 26-year-old mom of three didn’t reveal what was inside her Tiffany box, but she did post Underwood’s note for all to see. On personalized stationery, Underwood congratulated Harper for making it to the Top 11.
“From the first time I laid eyes on you — and heard your story & your voice, I knew you were special,” Underwood wrote of Harper’s powerful audition, during which she sang her original song “String Cheese” about coping with postpartum depression. “So many women & moms everywhere have related to you. You are an inspiration!!! I can not wait to see what God has in store for you & I am so blessed to have a front row seat!”
Jordan McCullough & Keyla Richardson Also Shared Their Gifts From Carrie Underwood
DisneyOn April 14, Keyla Richardson and Jordan McCullough were among the multiple contestants who also posted pics of their gifts and personalized notes from Underwood.
In her note to McCullough, Underwood wrote, “You have truly been blessed with incredible talent & I absolutely love how you use it for God’s glory! May He continue to bless your journey! I can’t wait to see where you go + all the amazing things you accomplish!”
McCullough revealed that he received a “custom necklace” from Underwood and wrote a note back to her in his post’s caption, telling the country superstar, “You are the perfect example of how to love Gods people well! I feel seen, validated and championed by your generosity.”
Richardson also posted a photo of her gift set and part of the note from the country superstar, who told the single mom from Florida that “God has blessed you” with undeniable talent.
In the caption of her post, Richardson wrote, “Miss @carrieunderwood I just want to take a moment to say THANK YOU from the bottom of my heart for the beautiful @tiffanyandco gift 💙✨ Your kindness and generosity mean more than words can express.”
“The fact that you took the time to bless someone like that speaks to the incredible woman and class act that you are,” Richardson continued. “American Idol gave us all a gift when it gave us YOU and your legacy continues to inspire every artist who walks through those doors. Grateful beyond measure. God bless you always. 🙏🏾💙 #idol”
After the Top 11 received their gifts from Underwood, two contestants were sent home based on viewers’ votes — Rae and Philmon Lee. Next up, the Top 9 will compete during Disney Night on the April 20 live episode.
