American Idol Eliminates Two Contestants After Emotional Performances

LOS ANGELES, CA — The competition heated up on Monday’s episode of American Idol as the top 12 contestants performed songs that celebrated significant moments in the show’s history. Contestants learned they had made the top 12 just one day before taking the stage for the April 28 episode.

Judges Lionel Richie, Carrie Underwood, and Luke Bryan offered feedback during the live two-hour episode, but with America voting for their favorites, the outcome was ultimately in viewers’ hands. At the end of the night, the two contestants with the lowest votes were eliminated, reducing the competition to the top 10.

Slater Nalley was the first to perform, honoring 2023 contestant Megan Danielle with “Angel From Montgomery.” Underwood praised his confidence and stage presence, predicting a bright future for him. Che followed with a heartfelt rendition of “Dancing on My Own,” which drew inspiration from Season 21’s Colin Stough. Bryan commended Che for his intensity since being saved in an earlier episode.

Other standout performances included Kolbi Jordan‘s moving cover of “Over the Rainbow,” which led Richie to describe it as “divine.” Meanwhile, Filo‘s tribute of “And I Am Telling You I’m Not Going” earned him a standing ovation from the judges.

The youngest contestant, 16-year-old Mattie Pruitt, impressed the judges with her version of “Because of You,” earning praise not just for her performance but for her age amidst the competition’s older contestants. Canaan Hill also received acknowledgment for his powerful performance inspired by Roman Collins.

Gabby Samone‘s rendition of “A Song for You,” inspired by Elliot Yamin’s classic version, left the judges speechless. Josh King delivered an emotional rendition of “All By Myself,” commemorating Pia Toscano’s performance.

Breanna Nix sang “Tell Your Heart to Beat Again,” pouring her struggles into the song. John honored Underwood with a performance of her song, “I Told You So,” while Jamal Roberts closed the night with a powerful rendition of “Heal” by Tom Odell, leaving the audience captivated.

After the votes were counted, the top 10 contestants who will move on to compete next week were announced: John Foster, Josh King, Jamal Roberts, Mattie Pruitt, Thunderstorm Artis, Slater Nalley, Gabby Samone, Canaan James Hill, Kolbi Jordan, and Breanna Nix. Unfortunately, Che and Filo were eliminated from the competition.

The top 10 will perform again on Sunday, May 4. American Idol airs on Sundays and Mondays at 8/7c on ABC.