A Selfless Goodbye: American Idol’s Most Emotional Elimination Yet

Another emotional goodbye shook the stage on Monday night’s American Idol, as the journey ended for one more contestant. With only two weeks left until the Season 23 winner is crowned, the tension continues to rise — and it’s showing in every note and every performance.

Sunday night’s episode (May 4) revealed just how high the stakes have become. Some singers battled nerves and emotion, while others stumbled over lyrics, proof that the pressure is reaching its peak. Platinum Ticket holders Kolbi Jordan and Canaan James Smith were eliminated, narrowing the field and reminding the remaining hopefuls just how close they are to the finish line.

On Monday, the Top 8 returned for the Judges Song Contest, where each contestant chose one of three songs handpicked for them by the judges. These selections were based on weeks of observation and insight into each artist’s strengths and growth.

The Top 8 and the song they chose are:

Jamal Roberts – “I Believe” by Fantasia

Breanna Nix – “Independence Day” by Martina McBride

Josh King – “Home” by Michael Buble

John Foster – “I Cross My Heart” by George Strait

Mattie Pruitt – “Always Been You” by Jesse Murph

Slater Nalley – “Atlantic City” by Bruce Springsteen

Thunderstorm Artis – “Faithfully” by Journey

Gabby Samone – “Hero” by Mariah Carey

The Final 7 Revealed

As usual, live voting opened at the beginning of the two-hour broadcast and closed just before the final commercial break. By the end of the night, six singers advanced thanks to America’s votes, while the judges had the power to save one more.

The two contestants in danger were Mattie Pruitt and Josh King. In a move that has fans calling him a class act, Josh King motioned for the judges to save Mattie and send him home. It’s unclear whether or not the judges saw Josh’s plea for his friend, but they ultimately chose to save Mattie, bringing Josh’s Idol journey to an end.

Ultimately, the judges chose to save Mattie Pruitt and Josh King’s American Idol journey came to an end. Watch the moment unfold in the video below.

Watch the emotional moment unfold in the video below.