An unexpected cut on “American Idol” has sparked backlash, with fans rallying behind a young country singer they believe was sent home too soon.

A wave of disappointment swept across social media after “American Idol” judges Carrie Underwood and Luke Bryan eliminated teen contestant Crews Wright during the duet round, which aired on Monday, April 7, 2025.

Wright had made it into the top 48 and was one performance away from reaching the live rounds. He and fellow contestant Kam’Ron Smith performed the gospel classic “How Great Thou Art!” during the head-to-head duet challenge.

After the performance, Wright reflected on the moment, “Just the way it goes, we gave it the best we had, let me take that back, I don’t think we gave it the best we had, but I think we did pretty good.”

Although Wright had impressed throughout the competition — especially Bryan — both he and his duet partner were not selected to advance.

Bryan addressed the pair, stating, “We don’t feel like you guys are ready for the top 24, but you have a heck of a foundation to build on. Just think about how much you’ve grown since being here and how much you can grow.”

Wright’s musical roots run deep. He grew up singing in church and was influenced by Southern gospel and traditional country music.

Before joining “American Idol,” he had already made a name for himself, winning the North American Country Music Association International’s Male Vocalist of the Year award four times in a row.

He also signed a record deal with Paradigm Music Group after winning the “Southern Lights: The Search For a Star” talent contest in Bonifay, Florida.

During his run on the show, Wright expressed a desire to “put the small town of Samson on the map” and prove that traditional country music still has a place in today’s industry.

Following his exit, social media erupted with strong reactions from fans, many of whom criticized Underwood and Bryan’s decision.

One person wrote, “No longer interest in Idol after watching from the first season till now. The judges let the best singer this season go which was CREWS WRIGHT! If he isn’t brought back then many of us are done with Idol [sic].”

Another added, “Luke and Carrie, I know in you’re [sic] hearts Crews Wright should not have been cut. I’m sure you did what the producers told you to do.”

“Bring back Crews or I am not watching this show anymore!!! Carrie must have been afraid he would show her up and same with Luke,” one comment read.

Another viewer declared, “I will not vote and never watch American Idol again. They sent the best home, CREWS WRIGHT [sic]!”

A reply to that comment echoed the sentiment, “100% agree, have no idea why they would have sent him home. He was top 10 for sure! Shame on Luke and Carrie for not putting thru authentic country [sic]!”

Before his elimination, Wright had already left a strong impression on both viewers and the judges during his initial appearances on “American Idol.”

In the season premiere, which aired Sunday, March 9, 2025, the 17-year-old high school student from Samson, Alabama, stepped into the spotlight with confidence, sharing that he had been singing “since I was knee-high to a grasshopper.”

Although Wright admitted he was nervous to perform in front of the judges — Carrie Underwood, Bryan, and Lionel Richie — he quickly charmed the panel with his personality and humor.

When asked about life back in his hometown, Wright responded with playful puns referencing each judge’s songs, “Well… Sometimes I’m Huntin,’ Fishin’ Lovin’ Everyday, other times, I’m letting Jesus, Take The Wheel, and other times I’m Takin’ It Easy on Sunday Mornin.'”

Following his elimination weeks later, Wright took to Instagram to thank his supporters. “I am sad to see this journey end, but I am excited to see where I am going! I’m so grateful for this experience and to all of you for the support. Follow me on TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube to join the ride.”

As the season continues, fans remain vocal in their support for Wright, whom many view as a promising talent with strong ties to traditional country music. While his journey on “American Idol” may have ended, the reaction to his exit suggests his story is far from over.