Fan favourites voted off in shock double elimination
American Idol viewers were left stunned as Julia Gagnon and McKenna Faith Breinholt were eliminated from the competition last night in a shock double vote-off. The result leaves just five contestants battling it out for a place in the final.
Gagnon, a 21-year-old college student from Cumberland, Maine, had been a fan favourite from the outset, receiving one of only three platinum tickets during the audition stages. Her powerful vocals and dynamic stage presence consistently impressed the judges, and she had been tipped by many to go all the way.
Breinholt, a 25-year-old esthetician from Gilbert, Arizona, also captured the hearts of the nation with her emotional backstory. Her audition went viral when her adopted family and birth family surprised her, creating a touching moment that resonated with viewers. Throughout the competition, she showcased her versatility, delivering memorable performances that received high praise from the judges.
This week’s episode, which aired on ABC on Sunday 5 May, saw the remaining seven contestants perform two songs each: a dance track and a number by iconic singer Adele. The show also featured a guest appearance by Meghan Trainor, who entertained the audience with her singles “To The Moon” and “Been Like This.”
The remaining contestants—Abi Carter, Jack Blocker, Triston Harper, Will Moseley, and Emmy Russell—will now head to Disney World in Orlando, Florida, to prepare for the highly anticipated Disney Night episode. This fan-favourite theme night will see the top five perform two beloved Disney songs each, vying for a spot in the finale.
As the competition intensifies, the judges—Katy Perry, Luke Bryan, and Lionel Richie—will be looking for even more outstanding performances and expecting the contestants to bring their A-game. Who will shine and who will stumble under the pressure? Be sure to tune in to the next episode of American Idol on Sunday, 12 May, to find out.
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