“American Idol” called it the “Showstopper” round, and the show did stop for one Alabama contender. At least one other faces a do-or-die duet challenge coming up Monday night.
Sunday night brought the season’s second brutal Hollywood episode, one of three that will winnow the field of more than 150 down to a final 24. Those 24 will soon be seen in episodes airing from Hawaii.
Going into Sunday’s episode, we knew of two Alabamians who’d made it at least this far: Crews Wright of Samson, Ala., a 17-year-old champion of traditional country music; and Isaiah Moore, a 22-year-old, just-married worship leader from Oneonta. Two others, Janae Patterson of Birmingham and Tyler Nichols of Pell City, said on social media that their runs had ended.
At least two more, Anna McElroy of Mobile and Dawson Slade of Moulton, also made it to Hollywood, but whether they’re in the running remains unclear. At this stage in the “Idol” process, not every candidate is seen in every episode.
Sunday’s episode featured its share of standout performances, but none of the Alabama singers was featured. The end of the episode brought a twist in format that made for a bit of a roller-coaster ride.
With 62 aspiring stars waiting to learn their fate, the judges called forward a group of eight for what Richie described as “the toughest decision we are ever going to make.”
“Congratulations on your talent,” he said. “Unfortunately, I’m sorry to tell you all that your journey ends here.”
Four competitors were then called up for a classic “Idol” fake-out, in which judge Luke Bryan made it sound like they were cooked but then told them they’d made it to the final 24. The lucky few were Canaan James Hill, Gabby Samone, Zalie Windsor and Mattie Pruitt.
Then another group of eight, including Moore, were called forward.
“Every single person in this room is on a journey,” said judge Carrie Underwood. “For this chapter of your story, it’s a ‘no.’ But turn this ‘no’ into something incredible.”
Moore said on Facebook that he’d had “the GREATEST experience ever” and talked about how his Christian faith had factored into it.
Moore’s wife, Abby Grace Moore, shared some backstage photos and posted: “To say I’m one proud wife is an understatement! Isaiah Moore I am BEYOND proud of you and all that you have accomplished! I know this journey on American Idol has come to an end but I know the Lord has so much in store for you. His plan is far greater than ours! It’s been an honor to be able to stand by your side and support you! I will always be your biggest fan! I love you so much.”
The math works out to 42 competitors and 20 remaining spots in the Top 24. Wright was visible among them, and may well be the only competitor left from the Alabama contingent.
Crews Wright of Samson, Ala., right, shares the “American Idol” stage with Cam’ron Smith of Georgia. (Eric McCandless/Disney)Eric McCandless/Disney
“We’re calling this next round the head-to-head round, and it starts tonight,” said Bryan. “You get to pick someone to sing with, and you’re going to do a duet by tomorrow. Because tomorrow we’re going to pick our next 20 to be in our Top 24.”
“It’s going to be a long night,” said Underwood.
“American Idol” airs at 7 p.m. on ABC. Previously aired episodes can be seen on Hulu.
