'American Idol' Season 18: Genavieve Linkowski goes home, fans angry that judges denied her a spot in Top 21
Genavieve Linkowski and her voice have come a long way since she first auditioned two years ago. But sadly on Sunday night, her 'American Idol' dream came to an end after she learned her fate in the Top 21.
American Idol' Season 18 returned on Sunday night and the Top 40 contestants traveled to Hawaii for their next round of competition alongside judges, Lionel Richie, Katy Perry, and Luke Bryan. While it was fun in the sun and beaches at Aulani Disney resort in Hawaii, sadly it was the end of the Idol journey for half of the contestants as the judges whittled down the Top 40 to Top 21.
Genavieve was the first contestant to kick off the night with her rendition of Lauren Daigle’s 'You Say' in front of the judges and audience in Hawaii. Though it was a pretty good performance, sadly it wasn't enough for her to advance to the next round.
Two years ago when Genavieve first appeared on 'American Idol' she got cut off during Hollywood Week. Back again this season, Genavieve has improved a lot when it comes to her vocals. Prior to going on stage, she explained why she chose this song, “I’m singing “You Say” by Daigle. It just means a lot to me. When my sister passed away, I felt very much that I was not enough because she was by my side since she was born and it was just this whole overwhelming sense of I can’t do this anymore.”
Critiquing her performance, Luke shared, "We’ve seen you grow tremendously. You have had tragedies and challenges within your family. I know that’s been very very tough on you and you have stepped up and grown a lot from the girl we saw in season one. You had magic things in your voice that really really stood out and you came back this year, we could tell that you worked, and those things were even better. Each round of this competition we’ve seen that."
Continuing he shared, "Last night, for some reason I didn’t feel a big connection,” he added. “It didn’t feel like we were getting that connectivity thing that we need as judges and it’s to the point in the competition that you almost have to deliver that every night. You can leave here with so much talent, so much promise and keep chipping away at it. I’m sorry to tell you you’re not going through to the next round.”
Though it was a disappointing end to her journey, Genavieve shared that this will not be the end for her and she will keep going. Taking to Twitter post her performance, fans said they were shocked to see that she didn't make it to the next round. Fans are outraged with the judges' selection this season and are slamming them for sending Genevieve home.
"I’m sorry Genavieve deserved top 20 over Aliana....Wasn’t really feeling anyone this episode either #AmericanIdol," a fan wrote. While another shared, "I’m honestly really surprised Genavieve didn’t make it. I can’t believe it. #AmericanIdol."
"I’m sorry, Genavieve Linkowski! I still think you should continue in the competition. #AmericanIdol," a fan said. Another added, "American idol sucks Its very shocking they let Genavieve go home."
"This is BS! Genavieve should be top 20! #AmericanIdol," a fan added. Another fan shared, "KatyCats that are mad that they sent Genavieve home, please say I. #AmericanIdol."
Do you think Genavieve deserved to be in the Top 21? Let us know in the comments below.
'American Idol' Season 12 airs every Sunday night only on ABC. Check your local listings for more information.