Carrie Underwood and Lionel Richie are sparking new discussion about what really happens behind the scenes on American Idol, after both judges spoke openly about a possible “curse” affecting contestants who are saved from elimination.

The conversation comes after a dramatic stretch in the competition. Recently, Richie used his judges’ save to keep Rae Boyd in the competition during “’90s night.” But just one week later, Boyd was eliminated by America’s vote. A similar pattern happened last season, when Mattie Pruitt was also saved by the judges, only to be sent home the following week.

That repeating outcome has led fans and even the judges to question whether getting saved might actually be a bad sign in the competition.

Speaking in an interview with reporters after the live show on Monday, April 13, Underwood said the pattern has caught the attention of the judges, including Luke Bryan.

“I was talking to Luke and Lionel about it. It seems like the person that gets saved really has to do something, ‘cause it seems like they’re the next one again,” Underwood said. She added that Boyd’s elimination after being saved “kind of feels like America did it again.”

Richie also admitted he has noticed the same trend. He said he only recently started thinking about it as a “curse.”

“Whoever you save, they’re going the next time. It is one of the most interesting things I’ve observed,” Richie said. He explained that success on the show is not just about singing ability, but about connection. “The voting public has to fall in love with you. It’s not just the voice.”

Richie added that each contestant who makes it into the Top 9 has their own unique connection with viewers at home, which can be hard to predict.

Underwood also pointed out how unpredictable audience reactions can be. “You don’t know what people are resonating with,” she said, comparing it to the music industry, where talent does not always guarantee success.

Meanwhile, contestant Philmon Lee was also eliminated ahead of Disney night after performing “Hot Blooded” by Foreigner. Boyd ended her run with a performance of Donna Summer’s “MacArthur Park.”

Another contestant, Lucas Leon, reflected on the competition’s unpredictability, saying it can be comforting knowing every singer has something unique to offer. He added that winning often comes down to timing and audience connection rather than one fixed reason.

As the competition moves closer to the Top 9, both judges and contestants agree on one thing: success on American Idol is never fully predictable.