‘American Idol’ Contestant, Son of Malcolm McDowell, Explains Mysterious Exit

Beckett Rex and Malcolm McDowell
Beckett Rex via Instagram; Leon Bennett/Getty Images

An American Idol Season 21 mystery has been solved. During the Monday, April 17 episode, it was revealed that one of the original Top 26 performers for the current season had backed out of the competition unexpectedly, and in his or her place, Paige Anne would be competing.

Without that contestant’s performances airing, the identity of this mystery person was under wraps until April 18. Beckett Rex, son of actor Malcolm McDowell, came forward on social media to reveal he was the singer who departed the competition of his own accord.

Beckett Rex

(Credit: Beckett Rex via Instagram)

Taking to Instagram, he wrote, “To all of you wondering, yes I was on @americanidol and I made the top 26. I’m not going to say why I didn’t decide to continue in the competition but what I will say is that it was my choice.”

While he didn’t elaborate when it came to the departure, Rex said, “I am forever grateful to my American Idol family and I will always look back at the experience with the utmost gratitude and fondness.”

In lieu of his absence, Rex asked viewers and fans, “Please go vote for my friends now as they continue on in the competition.”

Along with being the son of McDowell, Rex is also the brother-in-law of Emily in Paris star Lily Collins who is married to his older half-brother Charlie, McDowell’s son with ex Mary Steenburgen.

What do you think of the American Idol twist? Let us know in the comments section, below, and stay tuned as the competition continues on ABC.

American Idol, Sundays & Mondays, 8/7c, ABC

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  1. G

    GoldBattery

    I think it’s unnecessary drama. And why not just have aired his journey? To go that far and just quit, seems ridiculous. He’s not giving a reason, which just adds to the drama so we can’t really know what sense it does or does not make.

    2

  2. P

    PurpleLeaf

    Last year a girl did the same thing and they aired her journey. I’m sure they don’t want someone to gain popularity and drop out to be signed by another agent. I’d imagine these contestants sign their lives away to American Idol once they reach the top 26. Especially if his family is already in the entertainment world he may not want that. Just my theory 🤔🤷🏻‍♀️

    1

  3. P

    PurpleDucky

    I don’t care. It’s his business.

    1

  4. C

    CyanMagnet

    because he knows he cant win.

    its not that he sucks, cuz he doesnt, but he cant wint.

    SO WHY TRY RIGHT.... JUST QUIT...

    WOW....THATS FAIL...

    1