‘American Idol’s Keyla Richardson Reacts to 3rd Place Finish After Mom’s Furious Response
What To Know
- Keyla Richardson finished American Idol in third place behind Hannah Harper and Jordan McCullough.
- Her mom said she was “robbed” in the competition, but Keyla had a much more positive reaction to share.
Just over an hour into the American Idol finale, the Top 3 finalist with the least amount of viewer votes was eliminated from the competition. Ryan Seacrest announced that Hannah Harper and Jordan McCullough would be moving forward, which meant Keyla Richardson was the person sent home.
Shortly after the announcement was made, Keyla’s mother, Katja, took to Facebook to react to the decision. In a now-deleted post, she wrote, “My baby was robbed. She did not fail. She was robbed i’m sorry I’m gonna say it!”
The following day, Keyla reacted to the news herself and was in great spirits. She posted a video with Season 23’s second runner-up, Breanna Nix, and wrote, “Season 23 & Season 24 3rd place finalist! It’s NOT BAD AT ALL, it’s actually GREAT. I’m excited about what’s coming, It’s only up from here! Love you.”
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During the finale, the Top 3 each performed a song by Alicia Keys, as well as another song dedicated to their hometowns. Keyla’s song choices were Keys’ “Unthinkable (I’m Ready),” followed by “I Love the Lord.” She also teamed up with Jason Mraz for a duet on his song “I Won’t Give Up” towards the end of the show.
After Keyla’s eliminations, viewers were able to continue voting for Hannah and Jordan. At the end of the night, Hannah was named the winner. Keyla is already back in her hometown of Pensacola, Florida, and gearing up for the next phase of her music career.
Just as important as that, though, is her role as a single mother to son Drew. The 9-year-old has been supporting Keyla throughout her entire journey, from her audition to the live finale. He even filmed a special segment for the May 11 episode where he competed against Carrie Underwood in a karaoke competition (and, yes, he won)!
What did you think of the American Idol finale? Were you surprised that Keyla finished in third place? Let us know in the comments below.
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A
Hannah clearly deserved the win not only because of her pitch perfect voice but her song writing skills too! Jordan was also excellent! Keyly shouldn’t of been third. There were other singers much better than her. Her ego was way bigger than her voice!!!
27
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J
Jordan should have won!! Nothing against Hannah. It will interesting to follow her. She's a stay at home home. That's alot of adjusting. Wishing her and her family the best with many blessings
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V
The three were excellent but people have to remember that they have to vote, vote, vote for the person that they want to win. You also have to remember that the person who wins first doesn’t always come out on top. Look at Jennifer Hudson. Academy award winner who didn’t place first. There will be good things ahead for Keyla. Wait and see
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M
I think Hannah won on her Betty Crocker persona--humble, wholesome, old fashioned country girl) and her backstory-- stay-at-home mom, music loving, multi-generational bluegrass musicia won her the Americanc Idol title not her talent. At best, her talent was above average. Whereas, mega talented and stand out stars Keyla and Jordan were the complete package--singer & entertainer. The true winner?: It's a tie for Keyla and Jordan! I predict they will both have the same career path as American Alumni Jennifer Hudson
19
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S
Seriously, fatigue has entered the room!
2
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M
You would be wrong. I voted for her because I think she’ll have the most success. She’s a great songwriter, she’s extremely marketable, and she’ll do great in country.
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B
It turned out like I thought it would. Although Keyla song her chops off they were all good, but American Idols track record still holds true. Personally I thought Jordan was the best of all of them.
16
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M
Actually a female country artist hasn’t won in over 20 years, since Carrie.
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N
Any of the three were worthy winners. Kryla can move forward without deserting her son at a vulnerable age. I think Jordan was actually the best singer.
15
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G
All Keyla needs to remember is that Jennifer Hudson didn't even make the finale in her season & look at her now! You don't need to win to have an AMAZING career! Just ask Jennifer, Chris Daughtry & Adam Lambert.
14
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J
Yes!!!
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D
I think God had his hands on American Idol. All three of the finalist had a message to share. Now they will all be able to make their message from God more widespread.
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S
I thought Jordan was the best and yes he will have a great career. But the girl that won shouldn't have. She is not an entertainer. Alot of people can stand there and sing but I need to be entertained.
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S
Well it’s depends… the music you like to hear, the individule you feel is best to represent your likes. I loved Hannah and she was good. I agree that Jordan was probably the best. It has nothing fo do with best singer when you open it for anyone in the world to vote. Hometown votes are not for the best singer either!!
9
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J
I think after all the voting the right person won !!
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S
Jordan all the way OMG was GREAT!!! Should of been first he will do just fine in life Go show us more of what you got ,💗💗💗
2
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B
I love American Idol! Personally I think Jordan was the best! The votes spoke. Congrats to them all! There is room for a successful career for them all! I think this year was full of good singers!
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B
Hannah amd Jordan were both worthy of the win....Hannah writing her own songs helped her.....
If you don't realize the competition between Carrie and Drew was staged.....well.....then you aren't very smart.....
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S
I stopped watching Idol years ago. The white contestants never come in at number one. This is a racist show and they are proud of that fact. No wonder Simon left before
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K
Rae was the best, complete package. Hannah second pick and Jordan third. Keyla will be alright.
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J
They all will be blessed. Jordan should have been the winner but he will have a great career. Im sure he already have a musical contract with someone.
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P
Keyla is an excellent singer. Her personality is a bit aloof and that may have been part of the voters' consideration as well.
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