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Is 'American Idol' Season 22 staged? Fans slam ABC show as Katy Perry cries over 'annoying' Mackenzie Sol

'American Idol' Season 22 star Mackenzie Sol speuclated to be a semi-finalist

SANTA BARBARA, CALIFORNIA: 'American Idol' Season 22 kicked off with a soulful performance from TikTok star Mackenzie Sol. As the singer received a standing ovation from the judges, Katy Perry, Lionel Richie, and Luke Bryan, fans began speculating that his audition might have been staged.

Amidst the judges' standing ovation, Katy remarked, "You could be in the Top 10." Mackenzie experienced a heartwarming surprise when his mother, who had been waiting outside, joined him. Overwhelmed by his mother's unexpected visit, the singer broke down in tears.

Witnessing this emotional moment, Katy's eyes welled up as she exclaimed, "We love this!" Seeing the scenario, a fan slammed ABC show, "#AmericanIdol showing us with the first contestant that it’s all staged."

Another asked, "Why does everything have to be so obviously staged now #AmericanIdol." To this, another replied, "Staged 100% but I felt he did great." A fan wondered, "How much did his mom pay for that segment." 

Another believed, "Honestly that’s the most annoying part. He had a really good audition but that whole setup just makes him unlikeable, to me."

'American Idol' Season 22: Mackenzie Sol gets Hollywood Week ticket, singing 'Bring It On Home'

Mackenzie introduced himself as a "prankster" as he walked onto 'American Idol's stage. He wants to be taken seriously by people because he believes he is "more than just a prankster."

The 23-year-old sang 'Bring It On Home' by Sam Cooke for his audition. After his performance, Luke praised the star, saying to his mother, "Your baby just knocked it out of the park."

The singer received three yeses and moved ahead to Hollywood Week.

Will Mackenzie Sol make it to 'American Idol' Season 22 Semi-finals?

If spoilers are to be believed, Mackenzie will manage to secure his position in the semi-finals. " Mackenzie Sol made the 'American Idol' Season 22 Semi-Finals (Top 24)," a fan spilled the spoiler on Idol Spoilers.

Reportedly, Mackenzie will secure one of the 12 coveted positions in Jelly Roll's group, solidifying his position as one of the top 24 contestants.

The Northern England native is not new to the singing world. He also appeared on 'X Factor' when he was just 4 years old. He is also a TikTok sensation with a massive 11 million followers. It remains to be seen how his journey will leave an impression on the judges in the future.

New episodes of 'American Idol' Season 22 release every Sunday at 8 pm ET on ABC.