Will Blake Proehl win 'American Idol' 2024? Former NFL player emerges as an early fan favorite singer
SANTA BARBARA, CALIFORNIA: It is not yet revealed whether Blake Proehl won 'American Idol' Season 22 but the former NFL player surely impressed both the judges and viewers in his audition. Despite receiving praise from the panel, Blake did not secure the platinum ticket.
Fans believe Odell Bunton, who got the platinum ticket, was not worthy of it, instead, it should have been given to Blake. A fan claimed, "Odell was pure noise and he got the platinum ticket! It should have gone to Blake. #AmericanIdol."
Another praised the singer, "BLAKE PROEHL ABSOLUTELY DEVOURED THAT AUDITION. SO SOFT, SO SMOOTH, SO TENDER, SO SWEET. IM SCREAMING CRYING THROWING UP. EARLY FAVORITE!"
One fan dubbed him as the "winner" of the ABC show. They commented, "My winner pick 1000percent." Another claimed, "And the winner of American idol….2024…IS….Blake Proehl." "Rooting for Blake all the way," wrote another.
A fan claimed, "Congratulations on making it to the NFL, A Winner always finds a way." One wrote with certainty, "He’s definitely gonna win."
If spoilers are to be believed Blake will make it to the Semi-finals. A fan wrote on 'Idol Spoilers,' "Blake Proehl made the American Idol Season 22 Semi-Finals (Top 24)."
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'American Idol' Season 22 contestant Blake Proehl's grandmother stood by his side during audition
Blake brought his grandmother to the audition, introducing her with a warm sentiment, "She's Nana; it's nice to have a close relationship with Grandma." As Blake stepped onto the 'American Idol' stage, he confessed to feeling a little anxious, stating, "I am not used to it."
His singing journey held a special dedication to his grandmother. Blake initiated his musical path by playing the piano and even pranked his grandmother in a video, which garnered attention across social media.
According to Blake, his grandmother mentioned in the video that they would recreate this moment on 'American Idol' and this dream came true. Intrigued, Katy Perry asked Blake to bring in his grandmother, saying, "I wanna know how she sounds; bring her in."
Throughout Blake's performance, his grandmother stood by his side, offering unwavering support.
Why did 'American Idol' Season 22 contestant Blake Proehl quit the NFL?
Blake hails from a household deeply rooted in football. His father, Ricky Proehl, enjoyed a 17-year career in the NFL, while his brother, Austin Proehl, formerly with the Buffalo Bills, currently plays for the St Louis Battlehawks. However, Blake's journey took a different turn as he no longer participates in the NFL due to a heartbreaking past.
The transition from football player to singer was prompted by a severe knee injury, a torn ACL, sustained during training camp. Many doubted whether he would ever run again, considering the extent of the injury.
In the wake of this setback, Blake had to bid farewell to his NFL aspirations. However, this turn of events allowed him to pursue his passion for music. Blake embarked on his musical journey in 2022 and began his career with the release of his debut single titled 'Falling For You'.
'American Idol' Season 22 premieres on Sunday, February 18, at 8 pm ET on ABC.