‘American Idol’ Season 24 sees Rae Boyd reveal she's dating Top 9 contestant and no one saw it coming

Season 24's Disney Night saw Rae Boyd return to the stage with a surprise announcement after she was eliminated last week
Screengrabs of Rae Boyd from Disney Night on 'American Idol' Season 24 (Cover Image Source: ABC Live | American Idol)
Screengrabs of Rae Boyd from Disney Night on 'American Idol' Season 24 (Cover Image Source: ABC Live | American Idol)

A sweet surprise stole the spotlight on ‘American Idol’ Season 24 this week, and nobody saw it coming, especially not Brooks Rosser. During the April 20 episode, which featured the much-loved Disney Night, the competition briefly took a backseat as a real-life love story became the center of attention. Brooks had just finished his performance as part of the Top 9 when host Ryan Seacrest teased that someone special was waiting backstage. He announced, “Well, somebody is here to surprise you. She’s very excited. Former finalist, Rae! One of the biggest fans of Brooks has come back.” Rae Boyd, who was eliminated just one week ago, walked onto the stage with a huge smile and a surprise announcement.

Screengrabs of Rae Boyd and Brooks Rosser from Disney Night of 'American Idol' Season 24 (Image Source: ABC Live | American Idol)
Screengrabs of Rae Boyd and Brooks Rosser from Disney Night on 'American Idol' Season 24 (Image Source: ABC Live | American Idol)

Viewers watched as she greeted Brooks with a warm hug before being prompted to share what was going on. “Um, the princess is here to claim her prince,” Rae winked as she delivered the news. The audience reacted immediately, and Brooks was caught off guard. Ryan, clearly enjoying the moment, followed it up with a playful confirmation, “Apparently, Rae said this is a hard launch for the two of you, so congratulations. You never know what comes out of ‘American Idol’.” With that, the show added another couple to its long list of behind-the-scenes romances.

For those keeping track, Rae was part of the Top 11 before getting eliminated in the previous episode. Even though her journey as a contestant ended, it seems like a new chapter is beginning. The reveal came during Disney Night, which is one of the show’s most fun and nostalgic episodes. Season 24 kept that tradition alive, bringing in Jennifer Hudson as a mentor and guest judge for the evening. Contestants took on iconic Disney tracks, each trying to win over both the judges and the audience at home.

Speaking of judges, the panel featured familiar faces: Carrie Underwood, Lionel Richie, and Luke Bryan. As always, they offered feedback after each performance, sharing praise and suggestions. However, their opinions don’t directly determine who stays or leaves, as the power sits firmly with the viewers. The Top 9 lineup for the night included Braden Rumfelt, Brooks Rosser, Chris Tungseth, Daniel Stallworth, Hannah Harper, Jordan McCullough, Kelya Richardson, Kyndal Inskeep, and Lucas Leon. But even with all that talent on display, it was Brooks and Rae’s relationship announcement that got people talking online. Meanwhile, the competition is tightening, and by the end of the night, the Top 7 will be announced. That means two contestants will be heading home.

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