Inside Carrie & Kelly's Secret Feud

Drama is fueling a long-simmering rivalry between American idol's biggest female stars, Carrie Underwood and Kelly Clarkson.

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Carrie Underwood came out on top. The country music star earned 57 percent of the vote, compared to Kelly Clarkson’s 43 percent, when The Tylt conducted an online poll a year ago asking fans which star was the “most iconic” American Idol victor. As votes were pouring in, Kelly diplomatically attempted to underplay the tight race between the two. “I think we’re both winning in life and pretty blessed! Singers, mamas, CEOs… #AmbitiousBlondes,” she tweeted. Carrie also weighed in, writing, “Whatever, girl, I voted for you! But seriously, I do wish more publications would just celebrate women’s success without pitting them against each other… Love ya! Hope you’re well!”

But Star has learned that the “Before He Cheats” songstress is singing quite a different tune behind closed doors. Carrie and Kelly might have public reputations that paint them as two of the sweetest singers in the music business, “but their relationship isn’t actually as friendly as people might think,” explains an insider, who says the superstars’ relationship has been marked by rivalry and jealousy. “There’s been a long-standing feud,” explains the source, “and it’s only gotten worse, with both stars privately trashing each other to friends.”

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