American Idol contestant Kenedi Anderson explains ‘necessary’ decision to leave talent show
‘We send her our well-wishes,’ host Ryan Seacrest said of show favourite
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.American Idol contestant Kenedi Anderson has explained her decision to quit the series.
Viewers of the long-running talent show were left confused by Anderson’s absence from the latest episode.
Host Ryan Seacrest eventually addressed this after her pre-recorded performance of Christina Perri’s “Human” was shown, stating: “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 said, adding: “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.”
Anderson herself shared a message on Instagram following the episode, telling her fans: “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.”
She continued: “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.”
Anderson became an early frontrunner after her audition, which saw her perform a piano cover of Lady Gaga’s “Applause”.
She received a standing ovation from judges Katy Perry, Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan.
Anderson was so well-liked that she was one of three contestants to be given a platinum ticket that fast-tracked her past Hollywood Week.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments