Nashville, October 1, 2025 — Country superstar Keith Urban has sparked controversy after a resurfaced concert clip revealed he altered the lyrics of his hit song “The Fighter”, a track originally inspired by his now‑estranged wife, Nicole Kidman. The timing of the viral video coincides with news of the couple’s divorce filing after nearly two decades of marriage.
Keith Urban Alters Lyrics of The Fighter
In the clip, shared on Instagram by Urban’s guitarist Maggie Baugh, the 57‑year‑old singer changes the line:
“When they’re tryna get to you, baby, I’ll be the fighter”
to
“When they’re tryna get to you, Maggie, I’ll be your guitar player.”
The original song, released in 2016 with Carrie Underwood, was widely known as a love letter to Kidman. Urban himself admitted in a 2017 interview that the track was based on a conversation with his wife during the early stages of their relationship, describing it as “a vow” to protect and care for her.
Divorce Filing After 19 Years
The lyric change comes just days after Nicole Kidman, 58, filed for divorce in Tennessee, citing irreconcilable differences. Court documents confirm the couple, who share two daughters — Sunday Rose, 17, and Faith Margaret, 14 — are living separately in Nashville.
Kidman has requested to be named the primary residential parent of their children. The filing ends a marriage that began in 2006 and was once considered one of Hollywood’s most enduring unions.
Fan Backlash and Public Reaction
Fans were quick to criticize Urban’s decision to alter the lyrics, calling it “disrespectful” and “trashy” given the song’s deep connection to Kidman4. Social media comments ranged from disappointment to outright anger, with one user writing: “Nicole deserves better. That song was made for her.”
Meanwhile, others speculated that the lyric change was a symbolic way for Urban to move on, though critics argue the timing was insensitive.
What’s Next for Urban and Kidman
Urban continues his High and Alive World Tour, with shows scheduled through October before heading overseas in 2026. Kidman, meanwhile, is focusing on upcoming film projects while navigating the high‑profile divorce.
The resurfaced clip has reignited debate about how artists handle personal tributes once relationships end — and whether rewriting history on stage is a cathartic move or a public misstep.
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