Sunday night’s American Idol was filled with high notes—and even higher tensions—as the Top 10 contestants battled it out during a powerful “Ladies’ Night” episode. With former winner Abi Carter returning to perform and country superstar Miranda Lambert serving as guest mentor, the stage was set for a night of unforgettable music. But the evening ended on a controversial note that left many viewers furious.
After a string of standout performances, host Ryan Seacrest announced that more than 22 million votes had been cast. Every contestant pulled in over a million votes, but for two singers, it wasn’t enough.
Thunderstorm Artis, Kolbi Jordan, and Canaan James Hill found themselves in the bottom three. And when Seacrest revealed that Kolbi and Canaan were heading home, fans erupted online.
“How are Josh and Mattie still here while Kolbi and Canaan are going home? Is this a joke?” one fan posted on X.
“Kolbi and Canaan could sing circles around most of the people still there,” another fumed. “This is not about talent anymore.”
Viewers didn’t hold back their frustration, calling out what they saw as inconsistencies—and even bias—in the voting results. Some pointed fingers at what they called the “politics” of Idol voting, with one fan comparing it to the infamous early eliminations of Jennifer Hudson and Fantasia’s time in the bottom three.
“Not as outrageous as Hudson and London back in the day, but still—this is giving flashbacks,” one person wrote.
Others defended Thunderstorm Artis, the final contestant to snag a spot in the Top 8, noting his consistent performances and artistic style. But even those fans admitted the results stung.
“Thunderstorm is my fave, but man, I hated seeing Canaan and Kolbi go. They didn’t deserve that,” one tweet read.
As the results were read, the room filled with hugs and quiet goodbyes. Breanna Nix was the first to be declared safe, followed by Mattie Pruitt—whose emotional acoustic take on “The House That Built Me” earned tears from the judges. Jamal Roberts, John Foster, Gabby Samone, Josh King, and Slater Nalley rounded out the Top 7, leaving just one final slot.
And that last spot went to Thunderstorm, sending home Kolbi and Canaan, despite their strong fanbases and memorable performances.
“I’m actually upset. Two of the best voices in Idol history just got eliminated,” one fan vented. “There’s no way I’m watching again.”
While some viewers cited Canaan’s challenges outside of gospel and speculated that genre played a role in his elimination, others pointed to Kolbi’s daring choice to step outside expectations by performing Fleetwood Mac instead of a soul anthem—something they admired, even if it didn’t win the votes.
Despite the heartbreak, fans continue to rally behind their favorites, with hopes that eliminated contestants like Kolbi and Canaan will find success beyond the Idol stage.
As the Top 8 prepares to return for Monday night’s “Judge’s Song Contest” episode, one thing is clear: America’s votes might shape the show—but they don’t always reflect its best voices.
