For the first time in 15 years, Jessica Simpson returned to the spotlight and performed her new single, “Blame Me,” from her latest album, Nashville Canyon, Pt. 1, on the American Idol Season 23 finale Sunday, May 18.
She also had a duet with former contestant Josh King on her 2005 cover of Nancy Sinatra’s “These Boots Are Made for Walkin’.”
However, what was considered one of the biggest highlights of the night sparked a mixed of reactions online.
With fans' and critics' alike divided opinions, was her comeback worth the wait?
Jessica Simpson Returns on Live TV
Simpson marked her first live TV performance in 15 years on the American Idol Season 23 finale.
The 44-year-old stunned everyone with her shimmering slit gown and proved she still had it as she took and owned the stage with her opening song, “Blame Me,” a breakup song that showed her more mature, country-tinged musical venture after relocating to Nashville in 2023.
However, despite the excitement, it looks like not everyone is happy about it.
Fans Divided by Jessica Simpson’s Comeback Performance
With the varied reception to Simpson’s comeback performance on the American Idol Season 23 finale, both criticism and praise flooded social media.
Twitter user @NigelInTheCity couldn’t help but call the singer-songwriter’s set an “absolute train wreck.”
@Burke_Franklin then described it as the “epitome of cringe” and shared a photo of judge Bryan Luke seemingly looking awkward.
@tootril was a bit brutal with their very blunt comment, directly saying Simpson neither looked nor sounded good.
However, if there is negative criticism, there is also positive praise.
@TedKLiong expressed excitement over Simpson’s comeback after pausing her music career.
Viral Vogue also commended the fashion designer’s “epic return” and “stunning performance” with her “powerful voice” and “sparkly dress,” calling it “absolutely iconic.”
The American Idol judges themselves, Bryan, Lionel Richie, and Carrie Underwood, gave Simpson a standing ovation after her performance.
Jessica Simpson Talks About Comeback on American Idol
In an interview with E! News, Simpson revealed that performing again on American Idol stage was a “good baptism” that she needed.
“I needed to get the stage and do it … and then now, I will not stop,” she teased.
As Simpson now goes country, beginning her new era and music, she explained she just followed what her record label, Nashville Canyon, told her to do and the job she had to do.
“The job that I’m doing is for myself,” she added. “No matter what we go through life, I feel like music heals and the fact that I’m able to make it is even more healing.”
Simpson’s big American Idol comeback was undeniably a bold move after 15 years of not performing on live television. While many criticized it, there’s no denying that others warmly welcomed her return—being both nostalgic and inspiring after everything she has gone through.
Her return seemingly shows the difficulty of meeting fans’ high expectations while also trying to appeal to the modern audience.
Though it reignites the talks about her career and vocal abilities, the answer to the question if her comeback is worth the wait actually depends on her fans and critics alike.
Regardless, it looks like we will see more of Simpson today.