“I am in shock" — American Idol fans react to Drew not making it to the Top 14

Drew Ryn from American Idol Season 23 | Image via Instagram/ @drewofficial
Drew Ryn from American Idol Season 23 | Image via Instagram/ @drewofficial

The shocking revelation of American Idol Season 23 was that one of the most highly acclaimed competitors of the season, Drew Ryn, did not place in the Top 14. Drew had developed a devoted following with each performance, particularly following her heartfelt version of Lady Gaga's "Million Reasons." She was well-known for her unique tone and emotional depth. Fans were so shocked and upset on social media when her name wasn't shouted during the unveiling.

Throughout the competition, Drew's unadulterated, genuine artistic talent and capacity to turn even the most popular songs into something wholly her own made her stand out. Her elegance, vocals, and genuineness were appreciated by both judges and fans during her Top 20 performance. She was regarded by many as a finalist, if not the clear favorite to win the entire competition.

Even though her time on Idol may have ended sooner than anticipated, Drew left an indelible effect on the public and the business. Top 14 or not, she is still a star in many people's eyes. Fans flooded social media with disappointing comments after discovering Drew's elimination.

An American Idol admirer posted on X,

"Drew Ryn #AmericanIdol I am in shock that you are not in the top 14. Especially having Josh there that makes no sense to me. I know you’re gonna have an amazing career and I cannot wait to see what you do. You’ll be missed but not for long.

Another fan commented,

"#americanidol I CANNOT BELIEVE DREW DIDN’T MAKE IT!!! What happened???? What pissed them off because you have to be insane not to have picked her!!! And all because she started on the floor?? What just happened????"
"Don't feel defeated. You had a great performance tonight. You have a good voice. Keep performing your time will come. Drew Ryn #AmericanIdol," another user shared on X.

More viewers of American Idol shared their disappointment after judges made the decision not to select Drew Ryn in the Top 14.

A person posted on his account,

"Surprised Drew is gone… like Josh over Drew? Even Desmond over Drew? Che over Drew? #americanidol"
"I literally cant believe Drew didnt make it... I refuse to believe she wasnt in the top 14. #AmericanIdol," another user expressed.

Who all made it to the Top 14 list of American Idol Season 23?

The Top 14 contestants for American Idol Season 23 have been formally announced. Kolbi Jordan, Thunderstorm Artis, Filo, Mattie Pruitt, John Foster, Canaan James Hill, Jamal Roberts, Gabby Samone, Slater Nalley, and Breanna Nix are the ten competitors who were guaranteed berths by America's votes. Judges then added Desmond Roberts, Josh King, Ché, and Amanda Barise to the list using their saves.

Regretfully, six exceptional competitors, Baylee Littrell, Drew Ryn, Zaylie Windsor, Victor Solomon, Olivier Bergeron, and Isaiah Misailegalu, did not advance to the next round. Their adventures ended just short of the Top 14 despite their great performances, leaving fans devastated and social media ablaze with responses.


Stay tuned to find out the winner of American Idol Season 23 every Sunday on ABC.

Edited by Zainab Shaikh