Each year millions of hopeful artists take to auditions around the country, hoping the American Idol judges will see something special in them. Understandably, each contestant who moves on to the next round is thrilled. As the excitement winds down and the pressure to perform increases, some contestants learn that American Idol isn’t what they were looking for. While it is rare, several contestants have voluntarily withdrawn from the competition over the years. Beckett McDowell recently stepped forward to reveal he is the mysterious American Idol contestant who chose to drop out of the current season. So, who else has opted to leave the singing competition on their own terms? We’ve collected three recent examples.
‘American Idol’ | Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images Sara Beth Liebe opted out of ‘American Idol 2023,’ as well
Sara Beth Liebe, initially dubbed “the accidental idol,” announced her decision to depart the competition just two weeks ago.
‘American Idol’ | Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images Sara Beth Liebe opted out of ‘American Idol 2023,’ as well
Sara Beth Liebe, initially dubbed “the accidental idol,” announced her decision to depart the competition just two weeks ago.
- 4/24/2023
- by Andrea Francese
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Last season on American Idol, 17-year-old Kenedi Anderson, of Crozet, Virginia, blew the judges away with her audition. Luke Bryan even called her the “biggest star” he’d ever seen on the show. Anderson received one of three platinum tickets in season 20 and quickly became a fan-favorite. However, after her Top 24 performance, fans were shocked to learn that she had dropped out of the competition. Read on to find out what Anderson is up to today and if there’s a chance she could return in American Idol Season 21.
Kenedi Anderson on ‘American Idol’ Season 20 | Eric McCandless/ABC Why Kenedi Anderson dropped out of ‘American Idol’ Season 20
Anderson performed alongside her fellow Top 24 contestants in Hawaii, but fans were unable to vote for her. After Anderson’s beautiful rendition of Christina Perri’s “Human,” host Ryan Seacrest revealed the teen had withdrawn from the competition due to “personal reasons.
Kenedi Anderson on ‘American Idol’ Season 20 | Eric McCandless/ABC Why Kenedi Anderson dropped out of ‘American Idol’ Season 20
Anderson performed alongside her fellow Top 24 contestants in Hawaii, but fans were unable to vote for her. After Anderson’s beautiful rendition of Christina Perri’s “Human,” host Ryan Seacrest revealed the teen had withdrawn from the competition due to “personal reasons.
- 2/4/2023
- by Elise Nelson
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
“American Idol” continued with the 18th episode of Season 20 on Sunday, May 8. This installment of the ABC reality TV competition saw the Top 7 singing popular TikTok songs and Mother’s Day dedications in front of judges Luke Bryan, Katy Perry and Lionel Richie. This week’s mentor was none other than will.i.am, who is one of music’s top producers and a member of the Black Eyed Peas.
See All of Katy Perry’s Disney costumes on ‘American Idol’ including Snow White, Ursula, Tinker Bell …
At the end of the night Christian Guardino and Jay were sadly eliminated. So who was the best from Sunday night? And have they continued to improve each week? Below I rank each hopeful from the least impressive (but with room to grow) to a possible Season 20 winner. Hit the lights and let’s go!
See Meet the Top 24 “American Idol” finalists for...
See All of Katy Perry’s Disney costumes on ‘American Idol’ including Snow White, Ursula, Tinker Bell …
At the end of the night Christian Guardino and Jay were sadly eliminated. So who was the best from Sunday night? And have they continued to improve each week? Below I rank each hopeful from the least impressive (but with room to grow) to a possible Season 20 winner. Hit the lights and let’s go!
See Meet the Top 24 “American Idol” finalists for...
- 5/9/2022
- by Vincent Mandile
- Gold Derby
American Idol viewers weren’t expecting any eliminations on Monday, but they got one anyway.
Following 17-year-old Kenedi Anderson‘s stunning Top 24 performance of Christina Perri’s “Human,” host Ryan Seacrest interrupted the broadcast with an important message about Anderson’s future in the competition, or lack thereof.
More from TVLineAbbott Elementary's Quinta Brunson Talks Janine's Decision and If Gregory Factored Into It -- Plus, Grade the FinaleMonday Ratings: CMT Music Awards #1 in Viewers, Ties Idol and 9-1-1 in DemoThe Wonder Years Video: Yvonne Orji Drops By as Bruce's Older Girlfriend
“You might have noticed that there was no...
Following 17-year-old Kenedi Anderson‘s stunning Top 24 performance of Christina Perri’s “Human,” host Ryan Seacrest interrupted the broadcast with an important message about Anderson’s future in the competition, or lack thereof.
More from TVLineAbbott Elementary's Quinta Brunson Talks Janine's Decision and If Gregory Factored Into It -- Plus, Grade the FinaleMonday Ratings: CMT Music Awards #1 in Viewers, Ties Idol and 9-1-1 in DemoThe Wonder Years Video: Yvonne Orji Drops By as Bruce's Older Girlfriend
“You might have noticed that there was no...
- 4/12/2022
- by Andy Swift
- TVLine.com
The former American Idol finalist Caleb Kennedy will stay in jail while a judge awaits his full toxicology report during his bond hearing for his DUI case that resulted in the death of 54-year-old Larry Paris. Kennedy, 17, was in court yesterday and his attorney Ryan Beasley presented records that included a urine test result and blood alcohol […]
The post ‘American Idol’ Contestant Caleb Kennedy Still In Jail Awaiting Toxicology Report appeared first on uInterview.
The post ‘American Idol’ Contestant Caleb Kennedy Still In Jail Awaiting Toxicology Report appeared first on uInterview.
- 3/11/2022
- by Jacob Linden
- Uinterview
Following his felony DUI charge, American Idol alum Caleb Kennedy has been reportedly denied bond at his court hearing. Earlier this month, on Feb. 8, Kennedy, 17, was driving his 2011 Ford pickup in South Carolina, when he allegedly drove into the driveway of a private residence and "struck" a building, an official from the South Carolina Highway Patrol previously told E! News. The person inside the garage, according to multiple reports, was later identified as Larry Duane Paris, 54. Following the incident, authorities confirmed that Kennedy, who is from Roebuck, S.C., was charged with felony driving under the influence resulting in death, adding that the "crash...
- 2/25/2022
- E! Online
During Sunday’s three-hour finale of “American Idol,” host Ryan Seacrest cryptically mentioned how Graham DeFranco had to fill in at the last second to sing with superstar Sheryl Crowe. But what viewers didn’t realize is that Graham had replaced Arthur Gunn, who was a no-show.
When asked about what happened with Gunn, judge Katy Perry simply called the controversy another “curveball” for this buzzed-about 19th season. It’s likely she was referring to two other singers who had exited the competition off-camera during the live shows: Wyatt Pike for personal reasons and Caleb Kennedy when a controversial video resurfaced.
SEEDon’t worry, Grace Kinstler and Willie Spence: These 13 ‘American Idol’ losers still became super successful
“Quite honestly, we’ve had a very colorful season [with] curveballs galore,” Perry explained during a post-show question-and-answer gala with reporters, according to EW. “But Graham DeFranco? I mean, killed it. Sang so well,...
When asked about what happened with Gunn, judge Katy Perry simply called the controversy another “curveball” for this buzzed-about 19th season. It’s likely she was referring to two other singers who had exited the competition off-camera during the live shows: Wyatt Pike for personal reasons and Caleb Kennedy when a controversial video resurfaced.
SEEDon’t worry, Grace Kinstler and Willie Spence: These 13 ‘American Idol’ losers still became super successful
“Quite honestly, we’ve had a very colorful season [with] curveballs galore,” Perry explained during a post-show question-and-answer gala with reporters, according to EW. “But Graham DeFranco? I mean, killed it. Sang so well,...
- 5/24/2021
- by Marcus James Dixon
- Gold Derby
Spoiler Alert: This story includes details about the May 23rd finale of American Idol
The season finale of American Idol is here and a victor has been crowned.
Chayce Beckham was chosen as the winner of 19th season of American Idol.
Grace Kinstler was the first to go earlier in the episode. Willie Spence fell short of votes and was the runner-up of the 2021 season of American Idol.
It was reported earlier this month that American Idol has been renewed for a fifth season on ABC – taking its total run to 20 seasons.
There’s no official news on whether judges Katy Perry, Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie and host Ryan Seacrest will return but the Disney-owned network is confident that they will back for next year. Last year, the show was renewed in May and the judges were resigned in August so it’s not a surprise.
ABC said that...
The season finale of American Idol is here and a victor has been crowned.
Chayce Beckham was chosen as the winner of 19th season of American Idol.
Grace Kinstler was the first to go earlier in the episode. Willie Spence fell short of votes and was the runner-up of the 2021 season of American Idol.
It was reported earlier this month that American Idol has been renewed for a fifth season on ABC – taking its total run to 20 seasons.
There’s no official news on whether judges Katy Perry, Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie and host Ryan Seacrest will return but the Disney-owned network is confident that they will back for next year. Last year, the show was renewed in May and the judges were resigned in August so it’s not a surprise.
ABC said that...
- 5/24/2021
- by Brandon Choe
- Deadline Film + TV
Now that her American Idol journey has been cut tragically short (just one week ahead of the grand finale!), Casey Bishop is setting her sights on the future.
“My experience on American Idol was amazing,” Bishop says in a too-short-but-better-than-nothing farewell message posted to the show’s official YouTube channel. “I’ve learned so much and I’ve grown so much. Thank you all for your support. Hopefully you’ll continue to support me in whatever new beginnings come my way.”
More from TVLineConners Boss Talks Dan and Louise's Big Step Forward in Finale -- and Ben and Darlene's Even...
“My experience on American Idol was amazing,” Bishop says in a too-short-but-better-than-nothing farewell message posted to the show’s official YouTube channel. “I’ve learned so much and I’ve grown so much. Thank you all for your support. Hopefully you’ll continue to support me in whatever new beginnings come my way.”
More from TVLineConners Boss Talks Dan and Louise's Big Step Forward in Finale -- and Ben and Darlene's Even...
- 5/19/2021
- by Andy Swift
- TVLine.com
With barely a passing mention of Caleb Kennedy, the contestant disqualified just days ago for appearing in a racist video, American Idol soldiered on this Sunday to reveal the trio of singers competing in next week’s season finale.
As always, let’s jump straight to the results: In a somewhat shocking turn of events, Casey Bishop was eliminated from the competition, leaving Chayce Beckham, Willie Spence and Grace Kinstler as the Top 3 of Season 19.
More from TVLineAmerican Idol: Caleb Kennedy Out of Season 19 After Racist Video SurfacesABC Renews American Idol, Shark Tank Plus 3 Other Unscripted SeriesRebel Star Katey Sagal...
As always, let’s jump straight to the results: In a somewhat shocking turn of events, Casey Bishop was eliminated from the competition, leaving Chayce Beckham, Willie Spence and Grace Kinstler as the Top 3 of Season 19.
More from TVLineAmerican Idol: Caleb Kennedy Out of Season 19 After Racist Video SurfacesABC Renews American Idol, Shark Tank Plus 3 Other Unscripted SeriesRebel Star Katey Sagal...
- 5/17/2021
- by Andy Swift
- TVLine.com
“American Idol” is just one week away from the season 19 final. On Sunday, May 16 the T0p 4 — Chayce Beckham, Casey Bishop, Grace Kinstler and Willie Spence — will sing three songs apiece: a personal tribute, a duet produced by guest mentor Finneas; and their winner’s single. There was to be a fifth semifinalist, Caleb Kennedy. After video surfaced in which he was sitting next to a man in a white hood, he left the show.
The producers opted not to invite back one of the Top 7 contestants — Arthur Gunn or Hunter Metts — who was eliminated last Sunday. It would have been the second comeback this season for Gunn. The season 18 runner-up earned his spot in the Top 10 by winning the Comeback Special, which aired on April 19.
Below, follow along with all the action in our live blog recap of Night 17 Season 19 episode of “American Idol” and find out which two contestants were eliminated.
The producers opted not to invite back one of the Top 7 contestants — Arthur Gunn or Hunter Metts — who was eliminated last Sunday. It would have been the second comeback this season for Gunn. The season 18 runner-up earned his spot in the Top 10 by winning the Comeback Special, which aired on April 19.
Below, follow along with all the action in our live blog recap of Night 17 Season 19 episode of “American Idol” and find out which two contestants were eliminated.
- 5/16/2021
- by Denton Davidson and Paul Sheehan
- Gold Derby
Hey, "American Idol" fans. Tonight, May 16, 2021, another Live results/performances episode did hit the airwaves, and another unlucky contestant got sent packing at the end of it all. All the judges: Lionel Richie, Katy Perry and Luke Bryan were indeed on hand to do their jobs of critiquing and what not. Tonight's Live episode kicked off with host Ryan Seacrest revealing that Caleb Kennedy was disqualified from the competition. Next, Chayce Beckham hit the stage to sing, "Cold Weather" by Zac Brown Band. Afterwards, Katy said, "I'm glad you decided to play guitar on the song. Your guitar is your ammunition." Luke said, "People love artists who are genuine, and that’s why you got this far." Lionel said, "People like you."...
- 5/16/2021
- by Andre Braddox
- OnTheFlix
Heading into the semi final on May 16, Grace Kinstler enjoys a huge lead in our “American Idol” winner predictions over the other artists in the Top 4. In our poll of “American Idol” viewers, Grace has racked up a whopping 52% of the vote. That is more than the other three semifinalists — Chayce Beckham, Casey Bishop and Willie Spence — combined.
But be warned: while Grace sits on a comfortable margin as of this writing, that could all change based on the performances Sunday by all four of these contenders to be the “American Idol” season 19 winner.
The Top 4 are set to sing three songs apiece in the two-hour episode airing live nationwide on Sunday: their winner’s single, a duet produced by guest mentor Finneas; and a tribute to their personal idol. The semifinals should have had a Top 5 but Caleb Kennedy departed after a video surfaced in which he is seen...
But be warned: while Grace sits on a comfortable margin as of this writing, that could all change based on the performances Sunday by all four of these contenders to be the “American Idol” season 19 winner.
The Top 4 are set to sing three songs apiece in the two-hour episode airing live nationwide on Sunday: their winner’s single, a duet produced by guest mentor Finneas; and a tribute to their personal idol. The semifinals should have had a Top 5 but Caleb Kennedy departed after a video surfaced in which he is seen...
- 5/16/2021
- by Paul Sheehan
- Gold Derby
“American Idol” is just one week away from crowning the season 19 winner. Only three of the Top 4 set to sing on May 16 will make it to the finale. That makes the song choices by Casey Bishop, Chayce Beckham, Grace Kinstler and Willie Spence even more important. We’ve done some digging and discovered the titles of the tunes that the remaining season 19 contestants will perform. Scroll down for these “American Idol” spoilers of the Top 4 songs for May 16.
The Top 4 will sing three songs apiece in the two-hour episode airing live coast-to-coast on Sunday: a song honoring their personal idol; a duet produced by guest mentor Finneas; and their winner’s single. There were to be five semi-finalists but Caleb Kennedy left the show after a video surfaced in which he was sitting next to a man in a white hood.
There had been speculation that one of the Top...
The Top 4 will sing three songs apiece in the two-hour episode airing live coast-to-coast on Sunday: a song honoring their personal idol; a duet produced by guest mentor Finneas; and their winner’s single. There were to be five semi-finalists but Caleb Kennedy left the show after a video surfaced in which he was sitting next to a man in a white hood.
There had been speculation that one of the Top...
- 5/15/2021
- by Paul Sheehan
- Gold Derby
Just days after Season 19 finalist Caleb Kennedy was cut from American Idol when a racially insensitive video surfaced, Season 18 fan favorite Doug Kiker — known as the “singing garbageman” – has been arrested on domestic violence charges in Alabama. Kiker was booked on Thursday for domestic violence, per the Mobile County Sheriff’s Office records. TMZ first reported the news.
According the music site A Taste of Country, as of last year Kiker was a married father of two who worked full time on a garbage truck.
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Douglas Kiker (@douglaskiker)
The 28-year-old Kiker brought Idol judge Katy Perry to tears with his version of Rascal Flatts’ “Bless the Broken Road.” The audition racked up more than 200 million video views across all platforms, according to Yahoo Idol expert, Lyndsey Parker. The dentally-challenged contestant was not long for the show, however, being sent home the first day of Hollywood Week.
According the music site A Taste of Country, as of last year Kiker was a married father of two who worked full time on a garbage truck.
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Douglas Kiker (@douglaskiker)
The 28-year-old Kiker brought Idol judge Katy Perry to tears with his version of Rascal Flatts’ “Bless the Broken Road.” The audition racked up more than 200 million video views across all platforms, according to Yahoo Idol expert, Lyndsey Parker. The dentally-challenged contestant was not long for the show, however, being sent home the first day of Hollywood Week.
- 5/15/2021
- by Tom Tapp
- Deadline Film + TV
“American Idol” has set no fewer than a dozen music stars for the series’ grand finale May 23 — three of whom may be fairly predictable, given that Luke Bryan, Lionel Richie and Katy Perry are the show’s judges.
Not quite as foreseeable in the final show’s performing pecking order: Sheryl Crow, Chaka Khan, Luke Combs, Mickey Guyton, Lindsey Buckingham, Fall Out Boy, Alessia Cara, Leona Lewis and Macklemore.
The show will air on ABC live across time zones May 23 at 8 p.m. Et/5 Pt.
Most of the 12 have been household names for some years, but Guyton is just becoming one, for many, after years of being a critical favorite on the country scene. She had her most high-profile TV gig recently when she co-hosted the Academy of Country Music Awards with Keith Urban. Weeks prior to that, she had a prime performance slot on the Grammys.
So ready for the @AmericanIdol finale!
Not quite as foreseeable in the final show’s performing pecking order: Sheryl Crow, Chaka Khan, Luke Combs, Mickey Guyton, Lindsey Buckingham, Fall Out Boy, Alessia Cara, Leona Lewis and Macklemore.
The show will air on ABC live across time zones May 23 at 8 p.m. Et/5 Pt.
Most of the 12 have been household names for some years, but Guyton is just becoming one, for many, after years of being a critical favorite on the country scene. She had her most high-profile TV gig recently when she co-hosted the Academy of Country Music Awards with Keith Urban. Weeks prior to that, she had a prime performance slot on the Grammys.
So ready for the @AmericanIdol finale!
- 5/15/2021
- by Chris Willman
- Variety Film + TV
Following the shocking exit of Caleb Kennedy from “American Idol” after an old racist video resurfaced this week (read his full comment here), fans have their fingers crossed the long-running reality TV show will invite back someone who was just voted off last weekend: Hunter Metts. A whopping 83% of poll respondents said Hunter “deserves” to return now that a spot has potentially opened up, while 17% argued he “was eliminated fair and square.” What do You think? Sound off down in the comments section.
See ‘American Idol’ Judges Ranked Worst To Best
With Caleb officially out of the competition, only these four artists are still in the running to join the “American Idol” winners list: Casey Bishop, Chayce Beckham, Grace Kinstler and Willie Spence. The Top 4 episode will air live coast-to-coast on Sunday, May 16 on ABC, with special guest star Finneas serving as this week’s mentor.
Hunter, a 22-year-old singer-songwriter from Franklin,...
See ‘American Idol’ Judges Ranked Worst To Best
With Caleb officially out of the competition, only these four artists are still in the running to join the “American Idol” winners list: Casey Bishop, Chayce Beckham, Grace Kinstler and Willie Spence. The Top 4 episode will air live coast-to-coast on Sunday, May 16 on ABC, with special guest star Finneas serving as this week’s mentor.
Hunter, a 22-year-old singer-songwriter from Franklin,...
- 5/14/2021
- by Marcus James Dixon
- Gold Derby
‘American Idol’ Finalist Caleb Kennedy Leaves Show After Video Of Friend With KKK-Like Hood Surfaces
American Idol finalist Caleb Kennedy has left the show after a video clip surfaced of him seated next to a friend dressed in a hood similar to those of the Ku Klux Klan. He released a statement on Instagram as an explanation to fans. The caption read, “An update from me, about American Idol.” Kennedy posted […]
The post ‘American Idol’ Finalist Caleb Kennedy Leaves Show After Video Of Friend With KKK-Like Hood Surfaces appeared first on uInterview.
The post ‘American Idol’ Finalist Caleb Kennedy Leaves Show After Video Of Friend With KKK-Like Hood Surfaces appeared first on uInterview.
- 5/14/2021
- by Madeline Hoverkamp
- Uinterview
Ahead of Sunday’s Top 4 episode of “American Idol,” Season 19 front-runner Grace Kinstler has just released her new single, “Love Someone.” This 20-year-old college student from Lakewood, Il has been predicted to win the crown for much of this season, according to Gold Derby’s racetrack odds. Listen to Grace’s love ballad below, which is giving us major Kelly Clarkson vibes, aka the powerhouse vocalist who won “Idol” back in Season 1. (See the show’s winner list.)
“When you love somebody, love someone, you live and you learn,” Grace sings on the record. “You rise and you fall, but somehow it’s worth it all.” On the May 16 episode, the final four artists will each sing three songs live for America’s vote: their winner’s single, a personal song choice and a song mentored by special guest star Finneas. “Love Someone” is Grace’s winner’s single.
Here...
“When you love somebody, love someone, you live and you learn,” Grace sings on the record. “You rise and you fall, but somehow it’s worth it all.” On the May 16 episode, the final four artists will each sing three songs live for America’s vote: their winner’s single, a personal song choice and a song mentored by special guest star Finneas. “Love Someone” is Grace’s winner’s single.
Here...
- 5/13/2021
- by Marcus James Dixon
- Gold Derby
The shock departure of Caleb Kennedy from “American Idol,” leaves just four artists — Chayce Beckham, Casey Bishop, Grace Kinstler and Willie Spence — still in contention to win season 19. These Top 4 will sing three songs each on Sunday’s show a song inspired by their personal idol, a duet produced by mentor Finneas, and their winner’s singles.
Heading into the May 16 two-hour episode, which will air live nationwide, we are surveying “American Idol” viewers for their season 19 winner predictions. Caleb had been polling at about 10%. Without him in the race, Casey has widened her lead and now registers at a whopping 40% of the vote in our poll. Willie sits in second at 28% while Grace has 20%. Rounding out the race is Chayce with 12%.
See ‘American Idol’ judges rankings: All 14 judges ranked from worst to best
The last time this quartet performed was on May 9, when they did two songs each: one...
Heading into the May 16 two-hour episode, which will air live nationwide, we are surveying “American Idol” viewers for their season 19 winner predictions. Caleb had been polling at about 10%. Without him in the race, Casey has widened her lead and now registers at a whopping 40% of the vote in our poll. Willie sits in second at 28% while Grace has 20%. Rounding out the race is Chayce with 12%.
See ‘American Idol’ judges rankings: All 14 judges ranked from worst to best
The last time this quartet performed was on May 9, when they did two songs each: one...
- 5/13/2021
- by Paul Sheehan
- Gold Derby
American Idol will be back to burst out another tune.
The singing competition has been renewed for a fifth season at ABC – taking its total run of seasons to 20.
This comes ahead of the season finale on Sunday May 23.
The series, which is produced by Fremantle and Industrial Media’s 19 Entertainment, was one of the first shows to bring back live audiences after the pandemic hit productions.
Cancellations/Renewals Scorecard: TV Shows Ended Or Continuing In 2020-21 Season
There’s no official news on whether judges Katy Perry, Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie and host Ryan Seacrest will return but the Disney-owned network is confident that they will back for next year. Last year, the show was renewed in May and the judges were resigned in August so it’s not a surprise.
ABC said that American Idol is averaging 9.4M viewers after 35 days of delayed viewing across linear...
The singing competition has been renewed for a fifth season at ABC – taking its total run of seasons to 20.
This comes ahead of the season finale on Sunday May 23.
The series, which is produced by Fremantle and Industrial Media’s 19 Entertainment, was one of the first shows to bring back live audiences after the pandemic hit productions.
Cancellations/Renewals Scorecard: TV Shows Ended Or Continuing In 2020-21 Season
There’s no official news on whether judges Katy Perry, Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie and host Ryan Seacrest will return but the Disney-owned network is confident that they will back for next year. Last year, the show was renewed in May and the judges were resigned in August so it’s not a surprise.
ABC said that American Idol is averaging 9.4M viewers after 35 days of delayed viewing across linear...
- 5/13/2021
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Dim those lights, because we’ve got the results on American Idol‘s fate: The singing competition has officially been renewed for Season 20 at ABC, TVLine has learned.
American Idol — which will be heading into its fifth season on ABC, after a long original run on Fox — is less than two weeks away from crowning its Season 19 winner, with Chayce Beckham, Grace Kinstler, Willie Spence and Casey Bishop still in the running. Earlier this week, Top 5 contestant Caleb Kennedy abruptly left the competition after a video surfaced online in which he is seated next to someone wearing what looks like a Ku Klux Klan hood.
American Idol — which will be heading into its fifth season on ABC, after a long original run on Fox — is less than two weeks away from crowning its Season 19 winner, with Chayce Beckham, Grace Kinstler, Willie Spence and Casey Bishop still in the running. Earlier this week, Top 5 contestant Caleb Kennedy abruptly left the competition after a video surfaced online in which he is seated next to someone wearing what looks like a Ku Klux Klan hood.
- 5/13/2021
- by Rebecca Iannucci
- TVLine.com
In the wake of Caleb Kennedy‘s shocking ouster from “American Idol” Season 19, fans are hoping the reality TV show brings back a former contestant who was just voted off last weekend: Hunter Metts. This 22-year-old singer-songwriter from Franklin, Tennessee was sent home during the Top 7 episode (along with Arthur Gunn) when he received the lowest number of votes for his Coldplay and Mother’s Day songs. A whopping 62% of viewers thought Hunter was robbed of a spot in the Top 5. But with Caleb now gone from the competition, a slot has potentially opened up. Vote in our poll below if you think Hunter should take Caleb’s place.
See ‘American Idol’ Winners List (Seasons 1 – 18)
Caleb won’t be returning to “Idol” because of the controversy surrounding a racist video that surfaced this week of the singer sitting next to a man in a white hood. A day after the video appeared online,...
See ‘American Idol’ Winners List (Seasons 1 – 18)
Caleb won’t be returning to “Idol” because of the controversy surrounding a racist video that surfaced this week of the singer sitting next to a man in a white hood. A day after the video appeared online,...
- 5/13/2021
- by Marcus James Dixon
- Gold Derby
A top American Idol finalist has abruptly exited the reality competition show after a controversial video emerged.
Caleb Kennedy, a 16-year-old country singer-songwriter on the ABC reality show, is no longer going to be part of the competition following a video that surfaced online that allegedly shows him sitting next to somebody wearing what appears to be a Ku Klux Klan-style hood.
Kennedy posted about his exit on Wednesday night, and sources confirmed the singer’s exit from the show.
“Hey y’all, this is gonna be a bit of a surprise but I am no longer gonna be on American Idol,” ...
Caleb Kennedy, a 16-year-old country singer-songwriter on the ABC reality show, is no longer going to be part of the competition following a video that surfaced online that allegedly shows him sitting next to somebody wearing what appears to be a Ku Klux Klan-style hood.
Kennedy posted about his exit on Wednesday night, and sources confirmed the singer’s exit from the show.
“Hey y’all, this is gonna be a bit of a surprise but I am no longer gonna be on American Idol,” ...
- 5/13/2021
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
A top American Idol finalist has abruptly exited the reality competition show after a controversial video emerged.
Caleb Kennedy, a 16-year-old country singer-songwriter on the ABC reality show, is no longer going to be part of the competition following a video that surfaced online that allegedly shows him sitting next to somebody wearing what appears to be a Ku Klux Klan-style hood.
Kennedy posted about his exit on Wednesday night, and sources confirmed the singer’s exit from the show.
“Hey y’all, this is gonna be a bit of a surprise but I am no longer gonna be on American Idol,” ...
Caleb Kennedy, a 16-year-old country singer-songwriter on the ABC reality show, is no longer going to be part of the competition following a video that surfaced online that allegedly shows him sitting next to somebody wearing what appears to be a Ku Klux Klan-style hood.
Kennedy posted about his exit on Wednesday night, and sources confirmed the singer’s exit from the show.
“Hey y’all, this is gonna be a bit of a surprise but I am no longer gonna be on American Idol,” ...
- 5/13/2021
- The Hollywood Reporter - Film + TV
Most of the Friends of Jon attend a Black Lives Matter protest in this week’s A Million Little Things, which leads to casualties both physical (Regina — though it’s scary, she winds up fine) and emotional (Eddie and Katherine — definitely not fine). The horrific death of George Floyd at the hands of Minneapolis police officers becomes a way for the ABC drama to expand upon its earlier conversations about race.
It’s a sobering hour. Read on for the highlights of “Listen.”
More from TVLineABC Renews American Idol, Shark Tank Plus 3 Other Unscripted SeriesAmerican Idol: Caleb Kennedy Out of...
It’s a sobering hour. Read on for the highlights of “Listen.”
More from TVLineABC Renews American Idol, Shark Tank Plus 3 Other Unscripted SeriesAmerican Idol: Caleb Kennedy Out of...
- 5/13/2021
- by Kimberly Roots
- TVLine.com
Caleb Kennedy won’t be part of “American Idol” anymore following the surfacing of a racist video in which he is seen sitting next to a man in a white hood. The talented teen was part of the Top 5 slated to perform on Sunday’s show, but withdrew on Wednesday.
The video was posted to Twitter on Tuesday evening, prompting a day of uncertainty as to what would happen. On Wednesday afternoon, Kennedy posted the following message on Instagram: “Hey y’all, this is gonna be a bit of a surprise but I am no longer gonna be on American Idol. There was a video that surfaced on the internet and it displayed actions that were not meant to be taken in that way. I was younger and did not think about the actions, but that’s not an excuse. I wanna say sorry to all my fans and...
The video was posted to Twitter on Tuesday evening, prompting a day of uncertainty as to what would happen. On Wednesday afternoon, Kennedy posted the following message on Instagram: “Hey y’all, this is gonna be a bit of a surprise but I am no longer gonna be on American Idol. There was a video that surfaced on the internet and it displayed actions that were not meant to be taken in that way. I was younger and did not think about the actions, but that’s not an excuse. I wanna say sorry to all my fans and...
- 5/12/2021
- by Paul Sheehan
- Gold Derby
American Idol finalist Caleb Kennedy has been cut from Season 19, after a racially insensitive video surfaced online, in which he’s seated opposite someone who appears to be wearing a Ku Klux Klan hood.
The 16-year-old crooner took to Instagram on Wednesday to break the news to his fans.
“Hey y’all, this is gonna be a bit of a surprise but I am no longer gonna be on American Idol,” he wrote. “There was a video that surfaced on the internet and it displayed actions that were not meant to be taken in that way. I was younger and did not think about the actions, but that’s not an excuse. I wanna say sorry to all my fans and everyone who I have let down. I’ll be taking a little time off social media to better myself, but saying that, I know this has hurt and disappointed...
The 16-year-old crooner took to Instagram on Wednesday to break the news to his fans.
“Hey y’all, this is gonna be a bit of a surprise but I am no longer gonna be on American Idol,” he wrote. “There was a video that surfaced on the internet and it displayed actions that were not meant to be taken in that way. I was younger and did not think about the actions, but that’s not an excuse. I wanna say sorry to all my fans and everyone who I have let down. I’ll be taking a little time off social media to better myself, but saying that, I know this has hurt and disappointed...
- 5/12/2021
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
“American Idol” finalist Caleb Kennedy is exiting the ABC show after a social media post resurfaced depicting him sitting next to and filming someone wearing what appears to be a Ku Klux Klan hood.
Variety has confirmed that 16-year-old Kennedy is no longer in the competition, and that Sunday’s episode will feature the show’s top four singers with one contestant elimination.
The video in question shows a younger Kennedy sitting next to a person who is wearing a white hood similar to those adopted as a symbol of hate by the white supremacist domestic terrorist group Ku Klux Klan.
In a statement on his social media, Kennedy, a native of Roebuck, South Carolina, addressed the video and his elimination from “American Idol.”
“Hey y’all, this is gonna be a bit of a surprise, but I am no longer gonna be on ‘American Idol.’ There was a video...
Variety has confirmed that 16-year-old Kennedy is no longer in the competition, and that Sunday’s episode will feature the show’s top four singers with one contestant elimination.
The video in question shows a younger Kennedy sitting next to a person who is wearing a white hood similar to those adopted as a symbol of hate by the white supremacist domestic terrorist group Ku Klux Klan.
In a statement on his social media, Kennedy, a native of Roebuck, South Carolina, addressed the video and his elimination from “American Idol.”
“Hey y’all, this is gonna be a bit of a surprise, but I am no longer gonna be on ‘American Idol.’ There was a video...
- 5/12/2021
- by Ellise Shafer
- Variety Film + TV
American Idol contestant Caleb Kennedy is exiting the ABC competition following backlash from an offensive video. The singer, 16, announced on Wednesday, May 12, that he will leave the show after a video surfaced online that allegedly showed him next to someone in a white hood reminiscent of those worn by the Ku Klux Klan. (E! News has not verified the authenticity of the video.) "Hey y'all, this is gonna be a bit of a surprise, but I am no longer gonna be on American Idol," Kennedy shared in a statement on Instagram. "There was a video that surfaced on the internet and it displayed actions that were not meant to be taken in that way." He...
- 5/12/2021
- E! Online
Caleb Kennedy is no longer in the running to become the next American Idol after a video surfaced online in which the contestant is seated next to someone wearing what looks like a Ku Klux Klan hood.
“Hey y’all, this is gonna be a bit of a surprise but I am no longer gonna be on American Idol,” the 16-year-old singer wrote in an Instagram post on Wednesday. “There was a video that surfaced on the internet and it displayed actions that were not meant to be taken in that way. I was younger and did not think about the actions,...
“Hey y’all, this is gonna be a bit of a surprise but I am no longer gonna be on American Idol,” the 16-year-old singer wrote in an Instagram post on Wednesday. “There was a video that surfaced on the internet and it displayed actions that were not meant to be taken in that way. I was younger and did not think about the actions,...
- 5/12/2021
- by Andy Swift
- TVLine.com
With only one two weeks left in the competition, the cuts on American Idol are getting brutal. Case in point: Sunday’s Mother’s Day episode, which stunned viewers by ending with the eliminations of Arthur Gunn and Hunter Metts.
Naturally, neither contestant was given a proper sendoff during the actual broadcast, but at least Idol is giving fans a chance to (sort of) say goodbye via YouTube.
More from TVLineAmerican Idol Recap: Top 5 Revealed! Did Your Faves Survive Coldplay Night?American Idol Video: Eliminated Trio Says Goodbye After Disney NightABC Renews American Idol, Shark Tank Plus 3 Other Unscripted Series...
Naturally, neither contestant was given a proper sendoff during the actual broadcast, but at least Idol is giving fans a chance to (sort of) say goodbye via YouTube.
More from TVLineAmerican Idol Recap: Top 5 Revealed! Did Your Faves Survive Coldplay Night?American Idol Video: Eliminated Trio Says Goodbye After Disney NightABC Renews American Idol, Shark Tank Plus 3 Other Unscripted Series...
- 5/12/2021
- by Andy Swift
- TVLine.com
Sarah Hyland has left the Modern Family nest… and now she’s flocking back to ABC.
The actress has joined the cast of the Alphabet network’s drama pilot Epic, from Once Upon a Time creators Adam Horowitz and Edward Kitsis, our sister site Deadline reports. The series is described as a romantic anthology “that reinvents fairy tales for a new audience.”
More from TVLineAmerican Idol: Caleb Kennedy Out of Season 19 After Racist Video SurfacesAmerican Idol Video: See Arthur Gunn and Hunter Metts Say Goodbye -- Which of the Top 5 Gets Your Vote?Grey's Anatomy's Sandra Oh Dashes Fans'...
The actress has joined the cast of the Alphabet network’s drama pilot Epic, from Once Upon a Time creators Adam Horowitz and Edward Kitsis, our sister site Deadline reports. The series is described as a romantic anthology “that reinvents fairy tales for a new audience.”
More from TVLineAmerican Idol: Caleb Kennedy Out of Season 19 After Racist Video SurfacesAmerican Idol Video: See Arthur Gunn and Hunter Metts Say Goodbye -- Which of the Top 5 Gets Your Vote?Grey's Anatomy's Sandra Oh Dashes Fans'...
- 5/11/2021
- by Dave Nemetz
- TVLine.com
Arthur Gunn‘s two-year journey on “American Idol” came to an end during Sunday’s Top 7 episode, and fans are still picking their jaws up off the floor. In our recent poll that asked viewers to name who was most robbed of a spot in the Top 5, this 23-year-old artist from Wichita, Kansas came in with 24% support. This week’s other eliminee, Hunter Metts, topped the list with an overwhelming 62%. The remaining 14% of poll respondents couldn’t decide and voted for the “both of them” option. Do you agree or disagree with your fellow “Idol” watchers? Sound off down in the comments section.
See ‘American Idol’ Winners List (Seasons 1 – 18)
The raspy-voiced singer made it all the way to the runner-up position during last year’s Covid-interrupted 18th season, with Just Sam ultimately beating him for the title. Arthur joined the current competition when the live shows began after winning America...
See ‘American Idol’ Winners List (Seasons 1 – 18)
The raspy-voiced singer made it all the way to the runner-up position during last year’s Covid-interrupted 18th season, with Just Sam ultimately beating him for the title. Arthur joined the current competition when the live shows began after winning America...
- 5/10/2021
- by Marcus James Dixon
- Gold Derby
“American Idol” fans are still pulling their hair out over Hunter Metts being eliminated during Sunday’s Top 7 episode. In our recent poll that asked viewers to name who was most robbed of a spot in the Top 5, this 22-year-old singer-songwriter from Franklin, Tennessee topped the list with 62%. The other eliminee, Arthur Gunn, came in at 24%. The remaining 14% of poll respondents couldn’t decide and voted for the “both of them” option. Do you agree or disagree with your fellow “Idol” watchers? Sound off down in the comments section.
See ‘American Idol’ Winners List (Seasons 1 – 18)
At his original audition, Hunter explained that he was finally allowed to try out for “American Idol” this year because of his sister, who resigned her job at Disney in order to avoid a conflict of interest. He chose Kaleo‘s “All the Pretty Girls” as his audition song and blew away the trio of judges: Katy Perry,...
See ‘American Idol’ Winners List (Seasons 1 – 18)
At his original audition, Hunter explained that he was finally allowed to try out for “American Idol” this year because of his sister, who resigned her job at Disney in order to avoid a conflict of interest. He chose Kaleo‘s “All the Pretty Girls” as his audition song and blew away the trio of judges: Katy Perry,...
- 5/10/2021
- by Marcus James Dixon
- Gold Derby
“American Idol” is down to the Top 5 after Sunday’s night show ended with the shocking elimination of Arthur Gunn and Hunter Metts. Gunn, who was the season 18 runner-up last year, had been a last-minute addition to the show. He won the Comeback Special on April 19 and then sailed through the Top 10 on May 2.
Heading into the Top 7 show on May 9, Gunn was in the top three of our “American Idol” winner predictions. But his reworked cover of the Coldplay classic “In My Place” and his Mother’s Day tribute, “Simple Man” by Lynyrd Skynyrd, just didn’t resonate with viewers. Also ousted was Hunter Metts, who sang the Coldplay tune “Everglow” as well as his original song “The River.”
See ‘American Idol’ Winners Ranked From Worst to Best: Who is #1?
With Gunn gone, the season 19 competition is now wide-open according to our poll of “American Idol” viewers. Coming off her red-hot performances on Sunday,...
Heading into the Top 7 show on May 9, Gunn was in the top three of our “American Idol” winner predictions. But his reworked cover of the Coldplay classic “In My Place” and his Mother’s Day tribute, “Simple Man” by Lynyrd Skynyrd, just didn’t resonate with viewers. Also ousted was Hunter Metts, who sang the Coldplay tune “Everglow” as well as his original song “The River.”
See ‘American Idol’ Winners Ranked From Worst to Best: Who is #1?
With Gunn gone, the season 19 competition is now wide-open according to our poll of “American Idol” viewers. Coming off her red-hot performances on Sunday,...
- 5/10/2021
- by Paul Sheehan
- Gold Derby
For fans of Hunter Metts and Arthur Gunn, Sunday’s episode of “American Idol” turned out to be a crushing blow. These two talented artists were eliminated during the Top 7 Coldplay/Mother’s Day episode, leaving only the Top 5 still in the competition. Despite their strong performances, Hunter and Arthur were sent home by America’s live coast-to-coast voting. Did viewers make a major oopsie? If so, which “American Idol” eliminated singer was most robbed of a shot of making it into next week’s Finneas-mentored episode? Vote in our poll below.
See ‘American Idol’ Winners List (Seasons 1 – 18)
Hunter Metts, 22 years old from Franklin, Tennessee, originally chose Kaleo‘s “All the Pretty Girls” as his audition song. After Hollywood Week, the curly-haired heartthrob took on “July” (showstopper round), “Chandelier” (Top 24 solo), “Who Will Save Your Soul” (Top 24 duet with Jewel), “Skinny Love” (Top 16 week),”I Can’t Make You Love...
See ‘American Idol’ Winners List (Seasons 1 – 18)
Hunter Metts, 22 years old from Franklin, Tennessee, originally chose Kaleo‘s “All the Pretty Girls” as his audition song. After Hollywood Week, the curly-haired heartthrob took on “July” (showstopper round), “Chandelier” (Top 24 solo), “Who Will Save Your Soul” (Top 24 duet with Jewel), “Skinny Love” (Top 16 week),”I Can’t Make You Love...
- 5/10/2021
- by Marcus James Dixon
- Gold Derby
“American Idol” showcases the Top 7 on May 9 in a two-hour episode airing live coast-to-coast. We’ve done some digging and discovered the titles of the Coldplay and Mother’s Day songs that the remaining season 19 contestants — Arthur Gunn, Caleb Kennedy, Casey Bishop, Chayce Beckham, Grace Kinstler, Hunter Metts and Willie Spence — will perform. Scroll down for these “American Idol” spoilers.
These lucky seven won enough votes from America last week to continue on in the competition. They were part of the Top 10 who crooned songs from Disney animated classics on May 2. All of them but one were culled from the Top 12 who performed Oscar-nominated songs on April 18. Joining them in the Top 10 was Gunn, the winner of the Comeback Special, which aired on April 19. He was the season 18 runner-up to Just Sam last May.
After taking a look at the song list for each of the season 19 Top 7, be sure...
These lucky seven won enough votes from America last week to continue on in the competition. They were part of the Top 10 who crooned songs from Disney animated classics on May 2. All of them but one were culled from the Top 12 who performed Oscar-nominated songs on April 18. Joining them in the Top 10 was Gunn, the winner of the Comeback Special, which aired on April 19. He was the season 18 runner-up to Just Sam last May.
After taking a look at the song list for each of the season 19 Top 7, be sure...
- 5/8/2021
- by Paul Sheehan
- Gold Derby
Coldplay frontman Chris Martin is taking on the role of mentor next week on “American Idol,” Variety has confirmed.
Martin is set to mentor the current “American Idol” contestants on May 9, which is the singing competition’s Mother’s Day episode. The remaining finalists will prepare and perform two songs for the episode: one of their choosing dedicated to a loved one in their life in honor of Mother’s Day, and a song from Coldplay’s discography. Martin will mentor each contestant during the process of preparing for the Coldplay-themed portion of the night.
Coldplay will also perform its upcoming single, “Higher Power,” during the episode in the song’s live debut. “Higher Power” is set to release on May 7 and will mark the band’s first release since “Flags,” a bonus track from the 2019 album, “Everyday Life.”...
Martin is set to mentor the current “American Idol” contestants on May 9, which is the singing competition’s Mother’s Day episode. The remaining finalists will prepare and perform two songs for the episode: one of their choosing dedicated to a loved one in their life in honor of Mother’s Day, and a song from Coldplay’s discography. Martin will mentor each contestant during the process of preparing for the Coldplay-themed portion of the night.
Coldplay will also perform its upcoming single, “Higher Power,” during the episode in the song’s live debut. “Higher Power” is set to release on May 7 and will mark the band’s first release since “Flags,” a bonus track from the 2019 album, “Everyday Life.”...
- 5/3/2021
- by Ellise Shafer
- Variety Film + TV
If Gold Derby’s predictions for “American Idol” Season 19 come true, Willie Spence is about to make history as the first Black male winner since Ruben Studdard. The “velvet teddy bear” won Season 2 of the reality TV singing sensation in 2003 over Clay Aiken and is still considered one of the best champions even two decades later. However, a Black man has never made it to the finale ever since, either as the winner or the runner-up. Can Willie break that curse?
See‘American Idol’ recap: Which ‘Comeback’ contestant will get the last spot in the Top 10? [Updating Live Blog]
According to our odds, which are derived from the predictions made by hundreds of “American Idol” users like You, Willie will join the show’s winners list when the finale airs in mid-May. His closest competition is Grace Kinstler, who topped our chart the first week of live shows but fell to second place after that.
See‘American Idol’ recap: Which ‘Comeback’ contestant will get the last spot in the Top 10? [Updating Live Blog]
According to our odds, which are derived from the predictions made by hundreds of “American Idol” users like You, Willie will join the show’s winners list when the finale airs in mid-May. His closest competition is Grace Kinstler, who topped our chart the first week of live shows but fell to second place after that.
- 4/27/2021
- by Marcus James Dixon
- Gold Derby
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