An unexpected cut on “American Idol” has sparked backlash, with fans rallying behind a young country singer they believe was sent home too soon.
A wave of disappointment swept across social media after “American Idol” judges Carrie Underwood and Luke Bryan eliminated teen contestant Crews Wright during the duet round, airing Monday, April 7, 2025.Wright had made it into the top 48 and was one performance away from reaching the live rounds. He and fellow contestant Kam’Ron Smith performed the gospel classic “How Great Thou Art!” during the head-to-head duet challenge.
After the performance, Wright reflected on the moment, “Just the way it goes, we gave it the best we had, let me take that back, I don’t think we gave it the best we had, but I think we did pretty good.”
Although Wright had impressed throughout the competition — especially Bryan — both he and his duet partner were not selected to advance.
Bryan addressed the pair, stating, “We don’t feel like you guys are ready for the top 24, but you have a heck of a foundation to build on. Just think about how much you’ve grown since being here and how much you can grow.”
Wright’s musical roots run deep. He grew up singing in church and was influenced by Southern gospel and traditional country music.
Before joining “American Idol,” he had already made a name for himself, winning the North American Country Music Association International’s Male Vocalist of the Year award four times in a row.
He also signed a record deal with Paradigm Music Group after winning the Southern Lights: The Search For a Star talent contest in Bonifay, Florida….CONTINUE READING