American Idol season 23 has introduced viewers to talented artists ready to compete for the winning title in this ABC singing competition series. The auditions have wrapped up, and now the Showstoppers Round has also concluded. In the newly released episode from April 6, 2025, viewers learned which contestants made it to Hollywood Week and the Top 24.
Towards the end of the episode, it was revealed that Canaan James, Gabby Samone, Mattie Pruitt, and Zaylie Windsor made it to the Top 24.
American Idol season 23 episode 7, titled Hollywood Week: Showstopper, aired on ABC on Sunday, Apr 6, 2025, at 8 p.m. ET/PT. The episode synopsis reads:
"Competitors bring their A-game in the showstopper episode, delivering powerful performances that could make or break their journey to fame; Jelly Roll joins as the first artist in residence to guide them along the way."
What happened on American Idol season 23, episode 7?
One of the main highlights of American Idol season 23, episode 7, was Platinum Ticket winner Canaan James Hill's performance. During the Showstoppers round, each contestant was given a chance to showcase their abilities in front of the judges as their fate was decided.
After all performances wrapped up, it was revealed that only four contestants made it to the Top 24, including Canaan James Hill. Sixteen cast members were eliminated. Meanwhile, the remaining 42 artists were set to compete in the next round of the competition, in which only 20 of them were to be selected.
American Idol artist Canaan performed I Never Would Have Made It by Marvin Sapp. During his confessional interview, Canaan told the cameras that he felt the "pressure" of being a platinum ticket winner, which is why he practiced for his final performance multiple times. Hill continued:
"I just go for everything that I have. Having the Platinum Ticket adds a lot of pressure. I do feel that there is an expectation that I have to make it far in this competition, and that's what I plan on doing, holding up that title and hopefully winning the whole thing and taking this all home."
The judges, including Luke and Lionel, praised Canaan for his hooking stage presence and high notes. According to Luke, this was the "best performance" he had ever seen and predicted great things for the singer's future. Another one of the main highlights was Mattie Pruitt's cover of It’s a Man’s, Man’s, Man’s World by James Brown.
Mattie was able to establish her presence as a 15-year-old artist as she added her own twist to the song. Brian and Richie stated that she was a "massive star." Later in the episode, it was revealed she was amongst the four contestants who made it to Top 24.
Joining Mattie were American Idol artists Gabby Samone and Zaylie Windsor for the next stage of the competition series as they secured their spots amongst the Top 24.
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Zaylie performed Happier Than Ever by Billie Eilish, showcasing her powerful vocal range. Meanwhile, Gabby sang Four Women by Nina Simone and received a standing ovation from the judges.
New episodes of American Idol season 23 air every Sunday and Monday exclusively on ABC. The upcoming Hollywood Week: Head-to-Head Round will air on Monday, April 7, 2025 on ABC.
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