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'American Idol' Season 22 contestant Kennedy Reid calls out 'haters' amid 'mean' comments over her look

American Idol' Season 22 star Kennedy Reid receives support from ABC show judges and viewers amid mean comments

SANTA MONICA, CALIFORNIA: 'American Idol' Season 22 contestant Kennedy Reid has received backlash over her appearance and wig since the auditions. However, the aspiring singer made it clear in the latest episode that she would not tolerate criticism anymore. Kennedy called out 'haters' amid 'mean' comments about her look.

She shared that she was excited after she got through the auditions but made the mistake of reading social media comments. The aspiring singer claimed that most of the "negative comments were not really about singing but about my appearance." She added, "People calling me a 43-year-old woman and commenting on my makeup, my hair.

Kennedy explained that she has been wearing wigs on the show so far because she had a "bleach fail at home." The aspiring singer elaborated, "Words can be so hurtful, but I'm not gonna do is let those people win." After receiving online hate, Kennedy performed on the ABC show without her signature wig. The viewers backed Kennedy amid negative comments and also praised her new look.

A social media user commented, "Kennedy Reid #AmericanIdol oh honey, haters are a pathetic bunch, that aren’t worth a second of concern. They didn’t make it to AI, you did! Congratulations!!" Another person added, "Kennedy doesn't deserve those comments. Ya can say it in your living room and leave it there. Why does it need to go to her insta comments."

Another internet user commented, "Kennedy Reid #AmericanIdol Girl you are a very beautiful young woman, ignore those haters who are just jealous because they don't have and will never have the talent you have and the beauty that pours out of you."

Another Instagram user said, "The Internet lets people be mean in relative anonymity. What a sad commentary on us. Just be you Kennedy and don't worry about the mean." Another viewer wrote, "Not them bullying her into taking off her makeup and the gag is she is still gorgeous."

Kennedy Reid takes back her power with 'American Idol' performance

Kennedy Reid graced the 'American Idol' stage with her powerful performance on 'Love Can Build A Bridge' by The Judds. The aspiring singer revealed the reason behind the song choice was to clap back at her haters. She shared, "I want to take my power back." Kennedy further claimed, "I'm not gonna give up on my dream because somebody doesn't like my wig."

Kennedy received support from the ABC show judges and Katy Perry complimented her, "This is your metamorphosis moment." Lionel Richie noted, "You're going to prove everybody wrong the rest of your life." He added, "Don’t listen to those idiots. All you have is you, believe in you." Kennedy responded, "I've learned how to love myself."

Kennedy Reid defends Tammy Faye Messner's comparison

'American Idol' Season 22 contestant Kennedy Reid was recently compared with televangelist Tammy Faye Messner, who in 2007 at the age of 65. Tammy was known for rocking lively wigs, dramatic lashes and heavy eye makeup. Kennedy took to her social media and clapped back at the negative comments about her look.

Kennedy shared photos of Tammy donning her signature blonde hair and black liquid eyeliner. Alongside the photos, Kennedy noted in the caption, "For all of the jokesters that want to call me Tammy Faye! Man! I sure am glad I finally looked her up." The ABC show contestant added, "You better bet that I will definitely be rocking wigs and full glam when I'm older!"

The aspiring singer continued in the caption, "This woman was beautiful. And SHAME on anyone that treated her like a laughing stock. Nobody’s perfect. Some people choose to look different. And if it’s not affecting your wellbeing, you shouldn’t be commenting about it." She concluded her rant, "Let’s all try to be better. Besides….. you know what they say opinions are like!"

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