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'American Idol' season 17: Fans disappointed show didn't invite season 16 winner Maddie Poppe to perform in finale episode

The show is known for its efforts to support previous season winners, but season 16 winner Maddie Poppe isn't in the line-up of performers for the finale episode

The season finale of 'American Idol' season 17 is set to air on May 19, and we'll witness the final three contestants perform for one last time before the winner is revealed. 

Gearing up for its grand finale, 'American Idol' recently revealed the line up of performances: the Top 10 will appear once again to perform together; Top 40 contestant Shayy will perform with a surprise guest; season 4 winner and famous singer Carrie Underwood too will perform in the grand finale.  

'American Idol' is known for its efforts to support previous season winners with air time in new seasons. But now it seems like the series has moved away from its tradition as season 16 winner Maddie Poppe isn't in the list of performers for the finale. 

Although Poppe appeared on Disney theme night with her boyfriend, season 16 runner up Caleb Lee Hutchinson, fans are disappointed that Poppe will not be performing on the finale. Poppe also revealed her frustration, via a tweet saying, "Was waiting for ‘ALSO from last week, our Season 16 winner has an album coming out May 17th.'” Post that she added, “Unfortunately, I won’t be returning to perform for the finale.”

After getting to know that Poppe will not be performing in the finale, fans took to social media to reveal their disappointment with the show for not adding Poppe to the lineup of performers on the finale.

"Hey @katyperry @LukeBryanOnline @LionelRichie are you guys planning on helping Maddie Poppe get a slot on the finale? Or are you also getting paid to stay hush at the disrespectful behavior by @AmericanIdol SUPPORT YOUR WINNER! #MaddiePoppe #AmericanIdol #whirlwind #madeyoumiss," wrote a fan on Twitter. 

Another fan wrote, "@AmericanIdol I’m done with AI since you’re shunning @MaddiePoppe Wthk r u thinking excluding last years winner n 2 add insult to injury her album releases just days b4 the finale. Team #MaddiePoppe #boycottAmericanIdol." 

"I've been thinking, is the real issue American Idol or Hollywood Records? Both have an interest in Adam Lambert/Queen and he is in finale Not watching finale if @MaddiePoppe is not given an opportunity to promote her music!! #MaddiePoppe #Whirlwind out May 17th #MadeYouMiss," wrote another fan. 

Apart from fans, season 16 contestant Ada Vox also tweeted her disappointment on Poppe not being in the finale lineup. "I’m so glad that Gabby is getting to perform her single “I Hope” on @AmericanIdol. It’s so great seeing contestants doing well and getting to come back! But... Why is Maddie not going back to perform a song off of her album that’s dropping just days before the finale?." 

'American Idol' season 17 is set to air its grand finale with the final three contestants - Alejandro Aranda, Laine Hardy and Madison Vandenburg - battling it out for a final chance to win the title. 

'American Idol' season 17 airs on Sunday night on ABC. Check your local listings for more information. 

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