ABC’s American Idol returned on Monday evening with performances from the Top 24, but an unexpected departure left only 23 contestants to compete for America’s vote.
Kenedi Anderson took to the outdoor stage at Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa in Ko Olina, Hawaii, for a performance of Christina Perri’s “Human.”
Ahead of her performance, 17-year-old Anderson met with guest mentor Bebe Rexha and even FaceTimed with Perri.
Following her stunning rendition of “Human,” host Ryan Seacrest revealed, “You will notice there was no voting information during Kenedi’s performance just now. Since we taped these shows in Hawaii earlier, Kenedi (or Kennnedy Anderson) has chosen to withdraw from our show for personal reasons. We send her well wishes.”
After Seacrest’s announcement, Anderson posted the following on her Instagram: “For personal reasons, I’m unable to continue on American Idol. This has been one of the hardest decisions I’ve ever had to make, but I know it’s necessary. I’m so grateful to American Idol, the judges, the producers, the amazing contestants, and all the fans who have supported me. Thank you for giving me such an amazing opportunity to share my voice, chase my dreams, feel so much joy and happiness doing what I love, and making lifelong friends along the way.”
For her audition, Kenedi had stunned the judges with her performance of Lady Gaga’s “Applause.”
Luke Bryan said she “might be the biggest star we’ve ever seen,” and Katy Perry added, “She was born to be a star.”
She was only one of only three Platinum Tickets given out during the audition process this season.
The results for the remaining contestants will be revealed next Sunday, April 17 at 8/7c EST on ABC during a special three-hour Top 20 show.
