“Was robbed” — American Idols fans share frustration over Mae Mae’s rejection

While Season 23 of American Idol continues to offer viewers emotional highs and surprising events, not all of the choices are positively received. Fans were astonished and saddened on March 23, 2025, when the 15-year-old daughter of famed producer Toby Gad, Mae Mae, failed to land a golden ticket to Hollywood during the latest episode. Even though she had a strong audition, the judges' decision sparked contentious discussions online.

In an emotive performance of Calum Scott's "No Matter What," Mae Mae displayed her passion and vocal prowess. Although the judges praised her sincere delivery, they eventually determined that she wasn't yet prepared for the challenge. Although their rejection inspired her to continue her musical career, many viewers were left wondering what would happen.

Fans who felt Mae Mae should be given another chance swiftly flooded social media with their opinions. Many criticized the decision, claiming it was unfair. Mae Mae's audition was one of the most talked-about parts of the evening as discussions regarding the intricacies of the judging process and the unpredictability of the competition.

An American Idol admirer posted on X,

"Mae Mae was robbed, this stupid *ss country ass show #americanidol"

Another X user wrote,

"@AmericanIdol Why do you say “no” to beautiful singers like Mae Mae? Seems like you only pick screamers to go through. I hope she succeeds despite your decisions. #AmericanIdol"

"Mae Mae sounded way better than 90% of those that get voted through and Lola “Phillips” Bonfiglio sounded worse than 90% of the No votes…Pretty blatant favoritism by association. Gotta love the so-called “Reality” Show BS. #AmericanIdol," another netizen criticized.

More fans shared with disappointment as Mae Mae gets rejected on American Idol.

A person shared on X,

"Can't believe Mae Mae is the first super competent contestant to not be voted through to Hollywood. I thought she was one of the better auditions tonight on #AmericanIdol"

"Mae Mae was 100 times better & Luke & Lionel's big deaf ears say no...🙄 #AmericanIdol," another person wrote.

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"Like to bake this cake a little" — American Idol judge Lionel Richie rejects Mae Mae

The judges were split on Mae Mae's American Idol Season 23 audition. Renowned producer Toby Gad's 15-year-old daughter gave a moving performance of Calum Scott's "No Matter What." The judges thought she needed more time to hone her skills before taking on the competition's tasks, even though her passionate performance demonstrated unmistakable talent.

"I think, right now, I would like to bake this cake a little bit more. It's going to be a no for me this trip," Lionel Richie said, highlighting the necessity of additional improvement.

On social media, fans vented their dismay, with many claiming that Mae Mae's ability merited an opportunity to be developed on the American Idol stage.

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Head to ABC to watch all the American Idol Season 23 audition performances.