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‘American Idol’ fans call it a ‘shame’ as Mia Matthews advances over ex-contestant Nya for Top 12

American Idol fans wanted Mia Matthews gone instead of Nya ahead of the top 12 elimination

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Mia Matthews secured her spot in the Top 12 of 'American Idol' Season 22 with a captivating rendition of "Those Memories of You" by Linda Ronstadt, Dolly Parton, and Emmylou Harris. Her performance wowed the judges and solidified her spot in the competition.

However, Mia's advancement left some viewers conflicted. While they acknowledged her talent and performance, there was a sentiment that another contestant, Nya, might have been more deserving of Mia's spot.

Some fans expressed disappointment that Nya was eliminated instead of Mia, wishing for a different outcome. Additionally, some viewers expressed disappointment that Mia didn't deliver the performance they were expecting from her. Despite her talent and potential, they felt that her recent performances fell short of their expectations.

"Was really hoping Mia Matthews would give us some badass girl rock like Heart or something. She’s my fave so far this season but I’m disappointed with her performance tonight," wrote a fan. "Mia has a nice voice but it’s an average country singing voice. Nothing outstanding. There, I said it," added another. "Mia Matthews is giving me country Kylie Jenner. Nice voice, not my cup of tea. Hope y’all vote for her tho,"said one fan.

Fans rallied behind Nya after her elimination, with some expressing a desire for Mia to have been eliminated instead with one fan saying, "I have about 7 that I like still in the competition, but with Nya gone I’m down to 6. Mia, KB or Emmy should have gone over her." "Nya should have been there instead of Mia or Tristan. It’s a shame," added another. 

Katy Perry calls Mia Matthew's performance 'authentic' 

During the 'Rock and Roll Hall of Fame' night performance, the judges showered Mia with praise, with Lionel Richie leading the accolades. He remarked that she "came out shining like a new penny," emphasizing her radiant presence on stage.

Katy Perry commended Mia for her authenticity, acknowledging the genuine emotion and sincerity in her delivery. Meanwhile, Luke Bryan echoed the sentiment, praising Mia for staying true to herself and her unique artistic identity throughout her performance.

With her last performance, Mia once again impressed the judges, particularly Katy, who praised the young singer. “Not to sound corny, but I think you found your roar!” she said. “The way that you looked at the cameras, and looked straight in our eyes, you’ve got a lot less fear, and that’s what’s gonna take you all the way to the top," Katy added, praising Mia's confidence. 

Lionel Richie calls Mia Matthew a 'serious artist' 

In her latest performance, Mia earned high praise from the judges. Singing "Wildflowers and Wild Horses" by Lainey Wilson, the 19-year-old talent from Centre, Alabama, showcased her remarkable skill.

The judges observed Mia's growing confidence with each passing week, noting that her performance was another shining example of her development. Katy Perry praised Mia for tapping into her inner strength, stating, "Not to sound cheesy, but I think you found your roar!"

Luke Bryan acknowledged Mia's progress and encouraged her to continue unleashing her energy on stage. Meanwhile, Lionel Richie expressed his pride in Mia's representation of Alabama and commended her as a "serious artist." Overall, the judges' feedback highlighted Mia's exceptional talent and her ongoing growth as a performer.

'American Idol' Season 22 airs on Sundays at 8 pm ET on ABC.