Lilian Garcia Criticized for Trying to Imitate Samantha Irvin on 10/21 WWE RAW

Lilian Garcia, a well-known announcer for WWE, made a surprising comeback on this week’s episode of RAW after an absence of more than eight years. However, her return has sparked some criticism, as some fans feel she was trying too hard to emulate Samantha Irvin.

On the October 21 episode of WWE RAW, Lilian Garcia made her return as the ring announcer, taking on the role she previously held for many years. Her comeback followed the recent departure of Samantha Irvin, sparking speculation about who would fill the spot. WWE confirmed Garcia’s return when they opened the show by reintroducing her. Although she made a few botches during her first announcement, fans were still happy to see her.

While speaking on Busted Open Radio, Bully Ray shared his thoughts on Lilian Garcia’s performance as she announced her first full wrestling show since WWE Evolution in 2018. He noted that she seemed nervous and felt she was trying too hard, almost as if she was attempting to imitate Samantha Irvin and criticized her for the same. Co-host Dave LaGreca agreed, mentioning that at times, it sounded like Garcia was mimicking Irvin’s tone.

“I saw the nerves within Lillian, I heard the nerves within Lillian,” Bully said. “I think Lillian was trying to be, last night, more than she needed to be. It almost felt like Lillian was trying to fill Samantha’s shoes in some way.”

Bully Ray expressed that Garcia’s performance felt unnatural compared to her previous work as a ring announcer. He encouraged her to return to her own style, emphasizing that she had already established herself as a unique performer. He advised her to simply be herself moving forward, without trying to replicate Irvin’s approach.

“All Lillian Garcia has to do, moving forward, is be Lillian Garcia,” Bully continued. “Don’t do the inflection. Don’t do anything like Samantha did. Samantha did her thing — it was unique to her, now she’s moved on.”

We have also reported that Lilian Garcia may not be a permanent replacement for Samantha Irvin. Fans are thrilled to have Lilian Garcia back as an announcer for the first time since 2016. Her return proves that anything can happen in wrestling. While it’s uncertain if she will stay with WWE for the long term, everyone is excited to see how her extended run unfolds.

Do you feel Lilian Garcia tried too hard to emulate Samantha Irvin? Sound off in the comments section below!