5 'American Idol' contestants who left way too early, but went on to become stars
Since 'American Idol' debuted in 2002, the singing competition has captured hearts with powerful vocals and memorable performances. Over the years, the show has successfully launched major names in the music industry, including Carrie Underwood, Kelly Clarkson, and Adam Lambert. However, there have also been contestants with immense potential who were eliminated far too early, leaving fans heartbroken.
1. Jennifer Hudson (Season 3)
One of the most talented names in the music industry, Jennifer Hudson's 'American Idol' elimination remains one of the most shocking moments in the singing competition. Despite delivering powerful performances week after week, she landed in the bottom three alongside Fantasia Barrino and LaToya London, an outcome that left everyone stunned.
Hudson was ultimately voted off in seventh place, shocking both the judges and fans alike, as per Entertainment Now. Despite her consistently powerful performances, Hudson was eliminated in seventh place, stunning judges and fans. She later went on to achieve EGOT (Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony Awards) status, proving that 'American Idol' fans don't always get it right.
2. Tori Kelly (Season 9)
Tori auditioned in Denver, singing 'Gravity' by John Mayer. While Simon Cowell voted no, she received yes votes from Randy Jackson, Kara DioGuardi, and Victoria Beckham, allowing her to move forward. In Hollywood Week, she performed in a group and later sang 'Hot n Cold' by Katy Perry as her final solo. Although she advanced through multiple rounds, she was ultimately eliminated at the final judgment and did not make the Top 24, as per the American Idol Fandom.
After 'American Idol', Kelly built a successful career. She released an independent EP in 2012, was later signed to Capitol Records by Scooter Braun, and released her debut album, 'Unbreakable Smile', in 2015, earning a Grammy nomination for Best New Artist. She also voiced Meena the Elephant in 'Sing' and its sequel. Kelly also appeared on 'The Masked Singer', and returned to 'American Idol' as a duet partner, guest mentor, and guest judge.
3. Pia Toscano (Season 10)
Pia Toscano's elimination on 'American Idol' Season 10 shocked many fans. She was known for her strong voice and beautiful ballad performances, and many people expected her to make it far in the competition. Instead, she was voted out early and finished in ninth place. Her exit showed how unpredictable 'American Idol' voting can be, where even talented singers can be eliminated unexpectedly.
4. Constantine Maroulis (Season 4)
Constantine Maroulis stood out in 'American Idol' Season 4 with his theatrical style and rock energy. Considered a frontrunner, his sixth-place elimination shocked many fans. After 'American Idol', Maroulis found success on Broadway, earning a Tony nomination for his role in 'Rock of Ages'. His journey, like many others, shows that while the show can create stars, it doesn't always recognize them in time.
5. Chris Daughtry (Season 5)
Chris Daughty auditioned in Denver and advanced despite a no vote from Cowell. He steadily impressed throughout the competition, delivering strong performances across multiple genres and consistently earning enough votes to stay safe week after week. Reaching the Top 4, he was ultimately eliminated after receiving the lowest number of votes, narrowly missing a spot in the finale, as per American Idol Fandom. After 'American Idol', he found major success with his band, Daughtry. Their debut album became the fastest-selling debut rock album in SoundScan history, earning Grammy nominations and topping the Billboard 200. He later returned to Idol as a mentor and appeared on 'The Masked Singer', finishing as the runner-up.
