Fans of American Idol first met singer Kenedi Anderson during the March 6th episode of the show. She auditioned with a cover of Lady Gaga’s “Applause” while accompanying herself on the piano.
Almost immediately, judges Katy Perry, Luke Bryan, and Lionel Richie knew they had found someone very special. Perry said she “checked every box” while Bryan said she “might be the biggest star we’ve ever had.”
They unanimously agreed that she earned herself of of this season’s coveted Platinum tickets, which goes to one artist in each city, allowing them to skip the first round of Hollywood Week, and the ability to hand-pick their duet partner for the next round!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7h28guGJ82I
She continued her winning streak during the duet round with a cover of Bill Withers’ “Lean On Me.”
After Hollywood Week, the advancing contestants travel to Disney Aulani Resort in Hawai’i as part of the Top 24. Anderson was mentored by pop-star Bebe Rexha for her performance of Christina Perri’s “Human.” She even received a FaceTime from Perri herself! Her delivery of the song was incredible and showed that she had potential to win the entire show. Normally, after the performances, they show the judges’ critiques and praises, but instead it cut to footage of host Ryan Seacrest in his radio studio.
“You might have noticed that there was no voting information during Kenedi’s performance just now. Since we taped these shows in Hawaii earlier, Kenedi has decided to withdraw from our show for personal reasons,” he explained. “We send her our well-wishes, and needless to say, we have incredible talent on this historic season, with more iconic Idol performance coming up for you right now.”
Shortly after this aired on ABC, Kenedi, 17, took to her official Instagram to give further clarity.
“For personal reasons, I’m unable to continue on American Idol,” the post read. “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.”
See her full statement below.
https://www.instagram.com/p/CcOydj_OdLU/
We wish Kenedi nothing but the best. We’re sure this isn’t the last we’ve seen of her! Watch her incredible Top 24 performance of “Human” below.