"Deserves to go through" — American Idol fans react to Desmond ending up in the danger zone

Desmond Robert from American Idol Season 23 | Image via Instagram/ @desmondrobertmusic
Desmond Robert from American Idol Season 23 | Image via Instagram/ @desmondrobertmusic

When Desmond Roberts ended up in the danger zone after giving one of the most emotional performances of the evening, his journey on American Idol Season 23 took an unexpected turn. The crowd and judges were shocked when the soulful singer, who has continuously dazzled with his vocal range and passion, was not one of the first competitors chosen for the Top 14.

In the "Songs That Make Me Think of Home" round, Desmond sang Adele's "He Won't Go" with raw passion and vocal accuracy. His performance was praised for its poise and sensitivity, demonstrating his distinct tone and maturity beyond his years. Desmond's place in the Top 14 wasn't assured despite his impressive performance, so there was a suspenseful wait for America's votes to be announced.

Fans swiftly expressed their annoyance on social media. Many criticized the voting process, arguing that after such an impressive performance, a person with his talent shouldn't have to compete for a position. Support for Desmond only grew after the results were announced, with viewers believing that this defeat may spur an even more powerful return in the next rounds.

An admirer of American Idol wrote,

"Desmond deserves to go through #AmericanIdol"
"Desmond don't worry about it. I'm on @JonBatiste side. You rock! Bulletproof is a hard song to sing. #americanidol," read another tweet.

A fan shared on social media,

"They need to put Desmond through. #AmericanIdol"

Another comment read,

"Desmond Roberts also does NOT get the automatic green light to go through -- but then he knocked OUT his version of "Titanium"-- think he might get a judges' save #AmericanIdol"

While many showed their support, a few thought that he shouldn't make it to the Top 14 and must go home from the danger zone.

A person shared,

"#Idol #AmericanIdol It's time for Desmond to go home. I have no idea what that performance was."
"Desmond should be a no we already got canan #americanidol," read a post from another X user.

Another viewer criticised,

"So I think they’re telling Desmond to simplify things because he’s always doing the most with every song. They’re not saying that to every contestant #AmericanIdol"

Desmond makes it to the Top 14 in American Idol Season 23

Desmond Roberts has formally guaranteed his spot in American Idol Season 23's Top 14 following a nerve-racking elimination round that left viewers on edge. The audience was obviously moved by Desmond's emotional performance of Adele's "He Won't Go," even though it ended up in the danger zone.

His moving speech and steady performances throughout the competition enabled him to receive enough votes to advance. Desmond will take the stage again in the upcoming round, giving fans another opportunity to experience his deep vocals and unquestionable star quality now that his spot has been assured.


Follow Desmond's journey on American Idol Season 23 on ABC.

Edited by Ishita Banerjee