“Breaks my heart” American Idol top 14 contestant Thunderstorm Artis speaks out against social media hate

A concerning trend emerged after the fierce live elimination episode of American Idol on April 21, 2025, when contestants faced a deluge of hate online. Thunderstorm Artis, a 29-year-old singer who placed in the top 14, issued a pressing plea for civility on social media after learning that some of his rivals had received death threats from angry spectators.

"I've been hearing some really sad, sad, upsetting news that a couple of my fellow contestants and former contestants from this season of 'American Idol' have been receiving just a lot of hate here on social media, man, and even death threats, like for real," Artis revealed in a late-night video.

While acknowledging that public scrutiny comes with the territory of reality TV competition, he expressed profound disappointment at the extreme negativity, stating:

"I just think we can do better as a world and as a people and it just really breaks my heart."

Following the difficult decision by judges Carrie Underwood, Lionel Richie, and Luke Bryan to send six contestants home, which sparked strong emotions from the show's ardent fan base, he made an emotional plea.

American Idol contestants open up about elimination drama, fan behavior, and cyberbullying

The two-hour live episode featured 10 contestants competing for the final four spots in this season's top 14. The tension was palpable as each performer awaited their fate. Amanda Barise, the last contestant to learn she'd been saved by the judges following her powerful rendition of Aretha Franklin's "Ain't No Way," later confirmed Artis's concerns about online backlash.

"The comments have been brutal," Barise admitted in response to Artis's video, noting she was trying to limit her social media exposure.

Despite the negativity, she maintained a positive outlook in her Instagram celebration post, writing:

"I made it to the #Top14 on @AmericanIdol! ✨ I sang for my life tonight on LIVE TELEVISION… I'm so grateful for this journey, everyone who's voted, and all the love and support."

The six eliminated American Idol contestants – Isaiah Misailegalu, Drew Ryn, Olivier Bergeron, Baylee Littrell, Zaylie Windsor, and Victor Solomon – faced the harsh reality of their journey ending while simultaneously dealing with the passionate, sometimes toxic reactions from viewers.

Artis, the oldest remaining competitor at 29, felt compelled to address the situation directly. In what he called a "PSA" for his followers, he emphasized that while contestants expect criticism as part of their American Idol experience, the level of vitriol crossed an unacceptable line.

His video highlighted a growing concern about reality TV fandoms and the sometimes dangerous ways viewers express disappointment about competition results. Rather than simply celebrating his advancement, Artis used his platform to advocate for his fellow contestants, both those continuing and those departing.

The singer's stance demonstrated maturity and empathy during what should have been purely a moment of personal triumph, suggesting why he might be connecting with audiences beyond his musical talents.

Despite the online toxicity, many eliminated American Idol contestants showed remarkable grace in their farewell messages. Victor Solomon took to Instagram with a positive outlook, writing:

"That's a wrap on American Idol! Thank yall for all of your support! Yall reminded me that I do have a major support system! NOW STAY TUNED CAUSE THIS WAS ONLY JUST A STEPPING STONE!! 🚀 to GOD be ALL the Glory!!!"

Drew Ryn maintained her sense of humor despite disappointment, posting:

"Well……..At least my glam team had me looking snatched. Thanks to everyone who tuned in for my #IDOL journey. This is just a peace out for now… you'll see me on Instagram again tomorrow."

Seventeen-year-old Isaiah Misailegalu expressed gratitude rather than bitterness, sharing:

"This journey has been the most amazing experience in my life. The BIGGEST thank you to @americanidol for gifting me the name Samoan Silk, allowing me to make a lot of life-long friendships, kickstart my music career and give me the best starting place I could ever ask for🙏"

Reactions from the remaining top 14 contestants

While processing the elimination night drama, the remaining American Idol contestants must quickly pivot to preparation for the upcoming Rock 'n Roll Hall of Fame-themed episode on April 27, featuring music legend James Taylor as their mentor.

Some of the American Idol top 14 contestants shared their excitement despite the shadow cast by online negativity. Sixteen-year-old Mattie Pruitt thanked fans "from the bottom of my heart!" while Filo posted an exuberant video exclaiming:

"Guys, I just made it to your top 14 — aaaaaagh!"

Breanna Nix revealed her astonishment at advancing, writing:

"I been fighting through allergies and nerves! What a MOMENT. AH. How is this possible!?!? Singing to celebrate!! YAY! I will never forget this."

Artis's call for kindness highlights a troubling aspect of entertainment competitions where passionate fan investment sometimes transforms into harmful behavior. His willingness to address this issue directly opens an important conversation about viewer responsibility and the real human impact of social media hostility.

The competition will surely get more intense as American Idol's Season 23 draws to a close, as will the thoughts of viewers. It might be just as interesting to watch how the producers, judges, and competitors handle this difficult part of contemporary reality TV as the musical numbers themselves.

For now, Artis has used his platform not just to showcase his talent but to advocate for decency in a competition that should ultimately celebrate artistry rather than foster division.

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You can watch American Idol live on ABC every Sunday at 8 p.m. ET, or stream episodes the next day on Hulu.