As American Idol Season 23 progresses, the intensity of the competition is escalating, particularly evident in the latest live show held on April 21, 2025. The dynamic Top 20 took the stage, but only 14 contestants would continue on this musical journey.
This week, ten artists earned their spots based on America’s votes, while the remaining ten found themselves in a precarious danger zone. To rescue themselves and avoid elimination, these artists had to deliver strong performances once more, hoping the judges would utilize one of their coveted saves.
Following a night filled with moving and electrifying performances, judges Carrie Underwood, Lionel Richie, and Luke Bryan made their tough decisions, ultimately selecting four talented contestants to complete the Top 14. Unfortunately, six contestants faced elimination. The remaining artists are now gearing up for the upcoming ‘Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Night,’ which airs live on Sunday, April 27, bringing the excitement to viewers nationwide.
Contestants in the Danger Zone: Bottom 10 Artists of American Idol
The following ten contestants found themselves in the danger zone, needing to impress the judges to stay in the running:
- 1) Isaiah Misailegalu (17, Las Vegas, Nevada) – “Sleepwalker” by Sammy Johnson
- 2) Drew Ryn (28, Chino Valley, Arizona) – “Million Reasons” by Lady Gaga
- 3) Olivier Bergeron (22, Kedgwick, New Brunswick) – “It’s Not My Time” by 3 Doors Down
- 4) Josh King (24, Charlotte, North Carolina) – “Never Gonna Give You Up” by Rick Astley
- 5) Ché (28, Essex, England) – “Jealous Guy” by John Lennon
- 6) Baylee Littrell (22, Alpharetta, Georgia) – “All of Me” by John Legend
- 7) Desmond Roberts (26, Corona, California) – “Titanium” by David Guetta feat. Sia
- 8) Zaylie Windsor (18, Safford, Arizona) – “Still Into You” by Paramore
- 9) Victor Solomon (26, Peoria, Illinois) – “Stayin’ Alive” by Bee Gees
- 10) Amanda Barise (27, Manhattan, New York) – “Ain’t No Way” by Aretha Franklin
With high stakes on the line, each contestant poured their heart into their final performances, hoping the judges would see their potential.
Top 10 Artists Advancing Based on Votes
In contrast, the following ten contestants were declared safe and will advance to the American Idol Top 14:
- 1) Kolbi Jordan (26, Tulsa, Oklahoma) – “I’m Every Woman” by Chaka Khan
- 2) Thunderstorm Artis (29, Haleiwa, Hawaii) – “I Love You” by Billie Eilish
- 3) Filo (23, Dublin, California) – “Skyfall” by Adele
- 4) John Foster (18, Addis, Louisiana) – “Neon Moon” by Brooks & Dunn
- 5) Mattie Pruitt (16, Eagleville, Tennessee) – “In the Stars” by Benson Boone
- 6) Canaan James Hill (17, Dallas, Texas) – “Stand” by Donnie McClurkin
- 7) Breanna Nix (25, Denton, Texas) – “The Show Must Go On” by Queen
- 8) Jamal Roberts (27, Meridian, Mississippi) – “Try a Little Tenderness” by Otis Redding
- 9) Slater Nalley (18, Atlanta, Georgia) – “This Ain’t It” by Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit
- 10) Gabby Samone (23, Baltimore, Maryland) – “Don’t Rain on My Parade” by Barbra Streisand
These talented artists received the audience’s support following their impressive performances on Sunday night, further solidifying their place in the competition.
Judges’ Saves: Who Stayed in the Competition?
After much deliberation, the judges decided to use their saves to round out the Top 14 by selecting Desmond Roberts, Josh King, Ché, and Amanda Barise. Unfortunately, this also meant six contestants had to leave the competition:
- Isaiah Misailegalu
- Drew Ryn
- Olivier Bergeron
- Baylee Littrell
- Zaylie Windsor
- Victor Solomon
Even though these contestants did not advance, each delivered memorable performances, garnering positive feedback from the judges.
The Top 14 will return to compete live in the next episode of American Idol Season 23 on April 27, 2025. Theme night will feature hits from the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, where contestants will pay tribute to legendary artists. As always, America will vote live to determine who progresses into the Top 12.