In a jaw-dropping elimination that left both judges and fans reeling, American Idol Season 23 contestants Gabby Samone and Mattie Pruitt were sent home during the May 11 live Disney Night episode — just shy of the coveted Top 5. Host Ryan Seacrest announced the results at the close of the two-hour special, revealing that over 20 million votes were cast by viewers. Despite soaring performances, Samone and Pruitt’s names were called, prompting gasps and stunned expressions from judges Luke Bryan, Carrie Underwood, and Lionel Richie.
The surprise was especially potent for Samone, whose commanding vocals and emotionally charged performances had consistently wowed both the judging panel and audiences. Her elimination sparked a flurry of backlash online, with viewers expressing disbelief and disappointment. Many took to social media to proclaim they’d stop watching the show altogether, arguing that the voting system had failed a clear frontrunner.
Gabby Samone Holds Her Head High
Gabby Samone, a 20-year-old powerhouse from Baltimore, chose grace over grief in her immediate response to the news. Within minutes of the live show’s end, she shared a heartfelt message on Instagram:
“Thank you all so much for the love and support!!! I am soo grateful to have made it this far! I love you all! Please continue to support my friends on their journey! This was an amazing experience!! THIS IS ONLY THE BEGINNING!! #TEAMGABBY”
Samone’s journey on American Idol has been one of quiet determination. After initially feeling unsure of her place in the competition, she gradually found her voice — and confidence — with each round. Her performance of “How Far I’ll Go” from Moana, under the guidance of Lin-Manuel Miranda himself, was a vocal triumph, with Underwood declaring, “Your voice was made for songs like that.”
But it was her Mother’s Day tribute that truly sealed the emotional connection. Samone sang “Home” from The Wiz, dedicating it to her mother Charoletta, who raised eight children and remained a rock for many beyond her immediate family. The performance earned a standing ovation and gushing praise. “You were singing that song like you were closing the show,” Richie said, while Bryan called it his favorite of hers all season.
An Idol Legacy in the Making?
Fans quickly drew comparisons to another unexpected Top 7 elimination — Jennifer Hudson’s infamous early exit in 2004. Hudson has since become one of the most decorated Idol alumni, achieving EGOT status. In fact, Hudson was an early supporter of Samone’s talent, inviting her on The Jennifer Hudson Show in 2022 and encouraging her Idol dreams.
One fan wrote, “You are our American Idol… Your gift is unmatched. That EGOT will be yours for sure,” echoing the belief that this moment is merely a chapter in a much longer and brighter career for Samone.
Her fellow contestants rushed to offer words of encouragement. Slater Nalley wrote,
“You are a legend, Gabby Samone. Keep crushing it and this is NOT THE END for you WHATSOEVER.”
Other contestants like Filo and Desmond Roberts echoed those sentiments, celebrating Samone’s voice, presence, and heart.
Mattie Pruitt Also Says Goodbye
Also exiting the competition was 16-year-old Mattie Pruitt, who had been saved by the judges just a week prior. Despite her undeniable vocal promise and emotionally resonant performances, her journey ended before reaching the Top 5. Pruitt has consistently shown potential as a rising star in country-pop music, and fans remain hopeful her story in the spotlight is only beginning.
