‘American Idol’ finalist Keyla Richardson’s mother says she was ‘robbed’ at the end of season 24
“American Idol” finalist Keyla Richardson’s mother said her daughter was being “robbered” following the Season 24 finale, where the singer finished third.
“My baby was robbed,” Katja Richardson wrote on Facebook after the ABC broadcast Monday night. “He didn’t fail. He’s being robbed, I’m sorry, I’ll say it!!”
Keyla, a 29-year-old teacher from Pensacola, Fla., placed behind winner Hannah Harper and runner-up Jordan McCullough in the finals.
Richardson sang Alicia Keys’ “Un-Thinkable (I’m Ready)” before singing Whitney Houston’s “I Love The Lord” in the hometown section.
Judge Luke Bryan praised her performance on the show during the live broadcast.
“This whole year I just watched you focus on driving and determination,” said Bryan.
“We have seen you give everything for your family and your team and your people and you have won in our eyes.”
“Just watching you capture every moment inspired me a lot,” he added. “Congratulations, good job.”
Despite her mother’s reaction, Richardson kept things positive as she reflected on her run on the show.
“The trip was amazing,” Richardson said on Instagram. “We just started #Idol.”
The singer also shared a post on Tuesday with her “American Idol” co-star Breanna Nix, who finished in third place on season 23 last year.
“Season 23 & Season 24 came in third place!” Richardson wrote.
“NOT BAD at all, actually GREAT. Excited for the future, It’s only from here! Love you @breannanixmusic #Idol #Top3.”
The three-hour finale also featured performances from guest mentor Alicia Keys and judges Bryan, Carrie Underwood and Lionel Richie, who joined in a rendition of Richie’s “Deep River Woman.”
Underwood also performed with Mötley Crüe, joining the rock band on “Home Sweet Home” and “Kickstart My Heart.”
Other artists throughout the night include Brad Paisley, Cameron Whitcomb, Clay Aiken, En Vogue, Jason Mraz, Lee Ann Womack, Nelly, Shinedown and Tori Kelly.
Blues Traveler and Gin Blossoms also appeared during the live stream.
At the time, Harper showed off her victory in her Instagram post.
“What a terrible, yet beautiful journey this has been,” Harper wrote. “And in some ways we’re just getting started.”
“Thank you to everyone who believed in me, prayed for me, voted for me, and helped push this dream as far as I could have imagined,” he added. “You changed my life.”
