In a stunning development that has sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry, country music superstar Carrie Underwood has filed a lawsuit against the hosts of ABC’s daytime talk show The View, alleging defamation and emotional distress following what she calls a “public insult” during a January 2025 episode. The Grammy-winning artist, known for her powerful vocals and wholesome image, is not only seeking substantial financial damages but has also made the unprecedented demand for the show’s closure, citing irreparable harm to her reputation and mental well-being.

The controversy erupted after Underwood performed “America the Beautiful” at President Donald Trump’s inauguration on January 20, 2025. During a mid-January episode of The View, co-host Joy Behar made pointed remarks about Underwood’s decision, questioning her patriotism by saying, “How do you love your country and support and normalize somebody who was a convicted felon who really wants to destroy the country, in my opinion? I don’t understand how you say you love your country at the same time as you normalize this convicted felon.” Behar’s comments sparked a heated debate among the panel, with Whoopi Goldberg and Alyssa Farah Griffin defending Underwood’s right to perform, while Behar doubled down on her criticism.

Underwood, who has largely stayed out of political controversies throughout her career, was reportedly blindsided by the remarks. Sources close to the singer reveal that she felt “deeply humiliated” by Behar’s words, which she believes painted her as unpatriotic and damaged her standing with fans. The situation escalated when a viral YouTube video from the channel OkayRickk falsely claimed Underwood was suing Behar and The View for $800 million, a rumor that gained traction despite being debunked by reputable outlets like Snopes. However, in a surprising twist, Underwood has now confirmed that she is indeed taking legal action—though not for the rumored amount.

According to court documents filed on April 10, 2025, in Los Angeles Superior Court, Underwood is suing Behar, Goldberg, Griffin, Sunny Hostin, and Sara Haines for defamation, intentional infliction of emotional distress, and loss of professional opportunities. The lawsuit claims that Behar’s “reckless and malicious” statements were not only false but also intended to harm Underwood’s career by alienating her fanbase and tarnishing her image as a unifying figure in country music. Underwood is seeking $50 million in damages, along with a public apology and the permanent cancellation of The View, arguing that the show’s platform has been used irresponsibly to “bully and defame” public figures.

“Carrie has always been about spreading love and unity through her music,” a spokesperson for Underwood said in a statement. “To be publicly insulted and labeled as un-American for simply participating in a historic event was a devastating blow. She tried to handle this privately, but the lack of accountability from The View left her with no choice but to seek justice through the courts. She hopes this action will hold media personalities accountable for their words and prevent others from experiencing similar harm.”

The lawsuit has reignited debates about free speech and the responsibility of media figures, especially on a platform as influential as The View, which has been a staple of daytime television since 1997. Former View co-host Elisabeth Hasselbeck, who previously criticized Behar’s comments as a “selfish publicity gain,” voiced her support for Underwood on Fox News, saying, “Carrie is standing up for what’s right. It’s un-American to attack someone for exercising their rights, and Joy’s comments crossed a line.”

Meanwhile, representatives for The View have pushed back against the lawsuit, calling it “baseless” and a “misguided attempt to silence free discourse.” In a statement, ABC defended the hosts, asserting that their comments were protected opinions under the First Amendment and made in the context of a discussion about a polarizing public event. “The View has always been a forum for open dialogue, and we stand by our hosts’ right to express their views,” the statement read. “We are confident this lawsuit will be dismissed and look forward to continuing our mission of providing thought-provoking content to our viewers.”

Underwood’s legal action comes at a pivotal moment in her career. After her inauguration performance, which was marred by technical difficulties but salvaged by an a cappella rendition with the crowd, she has taken on a new role as a judge on American Idol Season 23, set to premiere in March 2025. Despite the controversy, Underwood remains a beloved figure in entertainment, with over 13 million Instagram followers and a career marked by hits like “Before He Cheats” and “Jesus, Take the Wheel.”

Legal experts are divided on the case’s outcome. Some argue that Underwood faces an uphill battle proving defamation, as Behar’s comments may be protected as opinion rather than fact. Others believe the emotional distress claim could gain traction, given the public nature of the insult and its impact on Underwood’s mental health. “This case could set a precedent for how far media personalities can go in criticizing public figures,” said legal analyst Karen Friedman. “If Carrie can prove tangible harm, it might force shows like The View to rethink their approach to controversial topics.”

As the legal battle unfolds, fans have rallied behind Underwood, flooding her social media with messages of support using hashtags like #StandWithCarrie and #ShutDownTheView. The controversy has also sparked broader conversations about the role of media in shaping public perception and the fine line between free speech and defamation. Whether Underwood’s demand for The View’s closure will be met remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: this lawsuit has already left an indelible mark on the intersection of celebrity culture and media accountability.