Luke Bryan Comes to Katy Perry's Defense Amid American Idol Criticism: We're Giving Our Best Efforts

American Idol • Luke Bryan • Katy Perry • Lionel Richie: Luke Bryan Defends Katy Perry Against Criticism on American Idol: "We're Not Going to Bat a Thousand as Judges" 

During an interview at CMA Fest, Luke Bryan, one of the judges on American Idol, came to the defense of his fellow judge, Katy Perry, in response to claims that she has bullied and mom-shamed contestants with her comments. Bryan acknowledged that Perry has faced such criticism throughout her career and emphasized the difficulty of judging contestants who have gained a fan following. He expressed that judges often face backlash and negative comments on social media. Bryan praised Perry for her efforts to have fun and make the show entertaining, noting that it's important not to play it too safe and to embrace moments of humor. He also mentioned that entertainers are conditioned to expect backlash and expressed his appreciation for Perry's ability to handle it throughout her career.

Perry faced boos and criticism from viewers in an episode of American Idol when she advised a contestant, Nutsa Buzaladze, to tone down her performance. She was also accused of mom-shaming Sara Beth Liebe, a mother of three who left the competition series midway. However, contestant Oliver Steele defended Perry in an Instagram post, denying the claims of bullying and highlighting Perry's ability to understand and address emotional struggles. Steele credited Perry for pushing him to believe in his potential as an artist and helping him exceed his limitations.

Amid rumors of Perry considering quitting the show due to the bullying claims, Bryan's supportive comments and Steele's endorsement provide a different perspective on Perry's role as a judge on American Idol.