american-idol-contestant-releases-statement-after-abruptly-leaving-competition

‘American Idol’ Contestant Releases Statement After Abruptly Leaving Competition

A few months ago, the “American Idol” judges predicted that one contestant, Kenedi Anderson, would make it at least to the Top 10 of the televised singing competition.

But now, after competing in the Top 24, Anderson has dropped out of “American Idol” due to personal reasons. The show aired her pre-recorded performance of “Human,” by Christina Perri, this past Monday, April 11. Anderson recorded the performance in mid-February at the Aulani Disney Resort in Kapolei, Hawaii. But between now and then, she has chosen to leave the competition, per CinemaBlend.

Anderson, a 17-year-old “American Idol” contestant from Crozet, Virginia, posted a message on Instagram following Monday’s episode. In the post, she explains why she decided to drop out.

“For personal reasons, I’m unable to continue on American Idol,” Anderson begins. “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 make lifelong friends along the way.”

Following Anderson’s performance on the episode, “American Idol” host Ryan Seacrest was the first to announce her departure.

“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,” Seacrest shared. “We send her well wishes, and needless to say, we have incredible talent on this historic season, with more iconic Idol performances coming up for you right now.”

‘American Idol’ Contestant Kenedi Anderson Leaves Show Despite Phenomenal Audition

It’s impossible to predict why Kenedi Anderson left ‘American Idol’ after being such a promising contestant. She is absolutely entitled to her personal reasons. We just hope that she can continue her blossoming music career in the future, with or without the singing competition to boost her.

In a best-case scenario, perhaps Anderson was already picked up by a label or record company. Katy Perry, one of the “American Idol” judges, even said during Anderson’s audition that it easily could’ve happened by now.

“I don’t know how you haven’t been recruited yet,” Perry said, after joking about feeling “threatened” by Anderson.

“Yeah, you’re a five-star recruit,” judge Luke Bryan added.

“You check every box and a lot of all of them,” Perry added. “Get ready to become your own hero.”

Lionel Richie, the third judge, told Andeson, “You don’t understand. We can sit here all day long and sing songs. What we’re looking for is the next thing in the music business. You have graced us, because your voice, your look, your sound, if that’s 17 years old, congratulations. You’ve answered our prayers.”

Bryan then delivered the cherry on top to the stunned Anderson. “Well, I believe you might be the biggest star we’ve ever seen. No doubt, I believe Top 10.”

“She was born to be a star,” Perry added.

See Anderson’s incredible audition video below.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7h28guGJ82I