Katy Perry Selects Standout Contestant in 'American Idol' Season 22 Top 24 Showcase

Katy Perry Picks Her 'Favorite' Contestant During 'American Idol' Season 22's Top 24 Performances

Katy Perry. Disney/Eric McCandless

One contestant from American Idol's season 22 Top 24 performances left with a smile on their face.

Judge Katy Perry expressed her admiration for contestant Abi Carter after her performance of Hillsong UNITED's "Oceans (Where Feet May Fail)" on the Sunday, April 7 episode. "I don't know if I'm allowed to say it, but you're my favorite," Katy Perry said. "I just think you are so gifted."

Perry, 39, remembered how Carter, 21, impressed everyone by singing Billie Eilish's "What Was I Made For?" at her audition. She was amazed and said, "It was like, 'Oh my gosh! And you can even sing a Hillsong song?' This was only the third time we heard you sing. The second time, it was hard to even hear a note."

Carter advanced to the Top 24 by performing an acoustic version of Cher's "If I Could Turn Back Time" despite being sick with bronchitis. Perry mentioned, "So, in a way, this is really like the second time we've heard you sing. I'm just so glad it reminded me of what an angel you are."

During Sunday's episode, Perry, Bryan, and guest mentor Tori Kelly all praised Carter for her performance, calling her one of the front-runners and favorites. Kelly commended Carter for being a true performer and owning the moment.

Lionel Richie also expressed his admiration for Carter, mentioning how she had everyone captivated during her performance. He encouraged viewers to vote for her, emphasizing the impact she had on the audience.

Carter was asked by host Ryan Seacrest about her thoughts on the judges' positive comments. She tearfully responded, "I'm looking at my mom right now, and she's crying, and so I am, too. This has just been the most incredible experience."

Katy Perry Picks Her 'Favorite' Contestant During 'American Idol' Season 22's Top 24 Performances

Disney/Eric McCandless

Despite being declared Perry’s top contestant, Carter’s American Idol fate remains up in the air as fans must vote to keep their favorite singers in the competition.

Carter was thrilled after Sunday's episode and shared her excitement on Instagram. She wrote, "Okay WOOOOW did this just happen??? From the bottom of my heart, thank you ALL so much for your support and for your VOTES!!" What Is the Best Song on Beyonce’s ‘Cowboy Carter’?

Carter wowed the judges with her rendition of Eilish’s Oscar-winning song from the Barbie movie soundtrack during her audition, receiving a standing ovation from Perry, Richie, and Bryan.

Perry commended Carter for singing from her heart and expressed confidence in her talent. After giving her a hug, Bryan joked to Richie, “That may be the winner of American Idol.”

A speechless Carter was subsequently bombarded with hugs from her family, who listened in on the audition through the cracks in the door.

American Idol airs on ABC Sundays and Mondays at 8 p.m. ET.

Editor's P/S:

Katy Perry's heartfelt praise for Abi Carter on American Idol showcased her exceptional talent and unwavering dedication to music. Carter's versatility, from Billie Eilish's ethereal melodies to Hillsong UNITED's worshipful anthems, highlights her vocal range and emotional depth. Her ability to captivate the judges and audience with her performances is a testament to her natural star quality.

Despite Perry's admiration, Carter's American Idol journey remains in the hands of the viewers. The public's vote will determine her fate in the competition, proving that even with the judges' support, it is ultimately the audience's choice who will emerge as the next American Idol.