Mariah Carey sets the record straight after her facial expressions during a tribute at the iHeartRadio Music Awards had social media in a frenzy. Fans dissected every look and reaction as Muni Long and Tori Kelly performed in honor of the legendary singer. While the internet speculated about Mariah’s thoughts, the diva herself has spoken out—and it’s all love.

Mariah Carey Shuts Down the Chatter

During Monday night’s iHeartRadio Music Awards, Muni Long and Tori Kelly teamed up to celebrate Mariah Carey, who was being honored with the 2025 Icon Award. The “All I Want for Christmas Is You” singer sat front and center alongside rumored beau Anderson .Paak, taking in the moment. But as always, the internet was locked in on Mariah’s every move, and her facial expressions quickly became the night’s most talked-about topic.

After fans speculated whether Mariah was unimpressed, she took to Instagram Stories on March 19 to show love to both Muni and Tori. She shared a photo of them together from the event, all smiles, with a heartfelt message:

“So beyond grateful for these two gorgeous, uber-talented, kind, incredible musicians who made my tribute performances at the @iheartradio awards. I love and appreciate you so much.”

That post was all fans needed to know—Mariah wasn’t throwing shade, she was showing gratitude!

Muni Long Claps Back at the Critics

Before Mariah addressed the situation, Muni Long had already defended herself from critics questioning whether she was the right choice for the tribute. She took to social media to remind folks that the Queen herself personally asked her to do it.

“You thought I chose to get on TV and sing a Mariah Carey song? You thought that was my choice?” Muni said in a video. “Nobody can sing Mariah’s songs like Mariah. Nobody. I didn’t choose that. She asked me to do it, and of course, I said yes. Cause why would I ever say no?”

Muni added that Mariah told her in person that she did a “great job,” and to her, that’s what truly matters.

Check out the post here:

Jamie Foxx Weighs In

Even Jamie Foxx had something to say about the tribute, though his take hasn’t been widely shared yet. But if Mariah says it’s all good, that’s the final word!

Moral of the story? Mariah Carey is still the Queen of Christmas and clearing up the internet’s wild theories.