Faith takes center stage on American Idol in powerful Easter Sunday episode

Season 23 of American Idol celebrated Easter Sunday with a round of "songs of faith," offering a platform for the contestants to connect deeply with the audience. After the top 24 performances last week, viewers had the power to vote, and the Easter episode revealed the top 20 contestants moving forward. Judges Carrie Underwood, Luke Bryan, and Lionel Richie gave their feedback, but the ultimate decisions were left to America.

The theme brought out soulful, heartfelt renditions, and the contestants truly stepped up to the occasion. With platinum ticket winners and newcomers alike battling it out, the stage was filled with powerful vocals, emotional tributes, and unforgettable performances that set the bar high for the rest of the competition. This Easter episode of American Idol didn't just celebrate faith; it showcased the incredible talent ready to claim the crown.

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Memorable performances captivate American Idol judges and viewers

Canaan James Hill kicked off the night with “Better Days,” drawing a standing ovation.

“Young man, do you have any idea what you just did?”

Richie asked.

“That was a performance to be remembered on American Idol for a very long time.”

Underwood praised his vocals but told him not to be “afraid to work the stage.”

Drew Ryn took a risk with Coldplay’s “Yellow,” which Underwood called “a little unconventional,” adding,

“That is what music is all about.”

Bryan told her,

“You’re kind of our little diamond in the rough.”

Desmond Roberts earned praise on American Idol for “Worship.

Bryan admitted,

“It’s far beyond my knowledge level,”

While Underwood said,

“It was really nice to kind of bring that excitement and sing the heck out of it.”

Filo’s a cappella start on “Bridge Over Troubled Water” earned cheers. Mattie Pruitt’s “Rescue” had Bryan exclaiming,

“Wow, wow, wow… Sixteen. What a great job.”

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More talent rises as results are revealed

Breanna Nix continued to showcase her consistent talent with "Up to the Mountain," solidifying her "solid" reputation. Victor Solomon's "For Every Mountain" was full of electrifying energy, praised by Richie for its showmanship. Baylee Littrell, son of Backstreet Boys' Brian Littrell, delivered his father's "Gone Without Goodbye" and impressed the panel with his vocal growth.

Isaiah Misailegalu brought a relaxed vibe to "Give You Blue," and Gabby Samone stunned with a show-stopping "I Am Changing," prompting Underwood to call her a "superstar." Slater Nalley stayed true to his roots with "Soulshine," while Zaylie Windsor showed potential with "Silver Springs" despite needing a little more vocal power.

Jamal Roberts brought the house down with "Forever," mixing old-school soul and modern style. Ché delivered a powerful rendition of "Redemption Song," while platinum ticket winner Kolbi Jordan closed out the performances with a breathtaking "Amazing Grace."

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First eliminations of the season shock fans

With the competition heating up, the Easter episode also saw the first heartbreaks. After all performances were complete and votes tallied, four contestants were sent home. Kyana Fanene and Grayson Torrence were eliminated from the night two performers.

From the second group, MKY and Penny Samar fell short. While the judges offered their encouragement, the eliminations served as a reminder that viewer votes now completely dictate who moves forward. With the top 20 locked in, the stakes have never been higher for the remaining contestants.

Monday’s episode promises even more intense competition as 14 contestants will survive the next round based purely on America's votes. As American Idol season 23 moves forward, the journey from hopeful to superstar grows even tougher, making every performance and every vote count more than ever before.