Kenedi Anderson, who unexpectedly quit American Idol season 20, has left fans with questions after uploading and deleting a new song. The singing competition, which first debuted in 2002, has helped scores of people kickstart their careers since Kelly Clarkson was declared the first winner. Although American Idol has gone through many changes over the past two decades - including a network switch from FOX to ABC - the program, which has been hosted by Ryan Seacrest from season 1, has continuously maintained its popularity despite similar shows like The Voice being introduced.
Kenedi's withdrawal from American Idol, which was announced after her pre-recorded Top 24 performance, left viewers shocked. The 17-year-old was considered a frontrunner by many, especially since her audition earned her one of three platinum tickets. Covering Lady Gaga's "Applause," judges Katy Perry, Lionel Richie, and Luke Bryan were so impressed with Kenedi that the teenager was allowed to skip the first round of Hollywood week alongside HunterGirl and Jay Copeland. Despite her early popularity, however, Kenedi revealed that she dropped out of the competition due to "personal reasons," on April 11 before thanking the judges and production team for the opportunity.
While Kenedi hasn't provided additional details about her early exit from American Idol, an original song briefly shared on TikTok has left fans speculating that Kenedi is pursuing another opportunity than the singing competition. Although Kenedi's TikTok clip was quickly deleted, MJ's Big Blog was one of several outlets that were able to transcribe the chorus' lyrics - and the content hints that Kenedi's withdrawal may be more complicated than it appears. “I need to find/Need to find something better than what I had/And with no strings attached," Kenedi sang to the camera. “Don’t I deserve that?/Something with no strings attached.” before teasing listeners with the sign-off, "That's all you get."
There are several theories floating around about Kenedi's withdrawal and deleted song, with many believing that the teenager has already signed a record deal. Fans analyzing the lyrics to Kenedi's untitled song think that the up-and-coming star is referring to American Idol's tight contract and subsequent obligations with the line "no strings attached," while others speculate that "find something better than what I had," hints at Kenedi being offered a better opportunity. Representatives of the longstanding show haven't provided insight into Kenedi's decision besides Ryan Seacrest updating viewers after her Top 24 performance, although one did tell the New York Post, "We are disappointed to see Kenedi leave, but we are excited to watch this celebratory 20th season unfold with the incredible talent vying to be the next American Idol."
Although fan-favorite Kenedi won't be appearing on American Idol anymore, season 20 is far from over. Now that the platinum ticket holder is no longer in the running, the winning title, $250,000 grand prize, and a recording contract with Hollywood Records could go to anyone. With 23 contestants left to battle it out, fans are not only keeping their eye on the competition but on what Kenedi will be up to from home. And of course, with this season of American Idol marking 20 years of success, viewers have plenty of guest performances to look forward to.
American Idol airs Sundays and Mondays at 8 pm EST on ABC.
Sources: MJ's Big Blog, Kenedi Anderson/Instagram, New York Post