American Idol star Kenedi Anderson has withdrawn from the competition due to ‘personal reasons’.
Fans noticed the 17-year-old frontrunner didn’t perform live during the latest episode of the show, with host Ryan Seacrest explaining her absence.
‘You might have noticed that there was no voting information during Kenedi’s performance just now,’ he said, following her pre-recorded performance of Christina Perri’s Human.
‘Since we taped these shows in Hawaii earlier, Kenedi has decided to withdraw from our show for personal reasons.
‘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.’
Kenedi went on to say on Instagram: ‘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 added that she’s grateful to the judges, performers, and fans, continuing: ‘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.’
Kenedi became a favourite in the competition following her incredible audition, which saw her perform a piano cover of Lady Gaga’s Applause.
She received a standing ovation for the beautiful rendition, and was given a platinum ticket that fast-tracked her past Hollywood Week.
Judges Katy Perry, Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie were blown away.
Katy said: ‘I don’t know how you haven’t been recruited yet. You check every box. Get ready to become your own hero.’
Lionel added: ‘You have graced us because your voice, your look, your sound – if that’s 17 years old, congratulations, you’ve answered our prayers.’
