The Top 3 on “American Idol” season 24 take the stage one last time tonight, including Keyla Richardson. We have arrived at the “American Idol” finale, and the winner of “American Idol” 2026 will be crowned tonight. Keyla has been one of the standouts, and her emotional performances win over the fans and judges every week. Tonight, we finally find out the winner of “American Idol” season 24. Did Keyla Richardson win “American Idol” 2026 tonight? Find out the results below in our “American Idol” spoilers.
Do NOT continue reading if you don’t want to know who the season 24 winner of “American Idol” is … Keyla Richardson’s Fate
Did Keyla Richardson win? The answer is…NO! After the first two performances tonight, Ryan delivered the first results of the night. America voted, and Keyla finished in third place, which means she has been eliminated tonight!
To follow along with tonight’s results, find out Hannah’s results here and Jordan’s results here!
Semi-Finals Performance on ‘American Idol’
During the semifinals on “American Idol” season 24, the Top 5 performed twice: a duet with a 2006 contestant from the show and a “DWTS” crossover performance.
For that “DWTS” crossover performance, Keyla sang “River Deep, Mountain High” by Ike & Tina Turner. Randy said he loved that she stayed on the melody, but let it marinate. She said she didn’t have the confidence, but this experience has changed her. This one took a while to kick in, so I was a little bored. However, the lyrics kick in and so does she, especially when the “DWTS” pros (Gleb Savchenko, Jan Ravnik, Rylee Arnold, and Witney Carson) came out. It’s a fun performance and a fun start to the night.
For the judges, Lionel said that’s the way you start a show. What he loved the most was the attitude. Paula said her vocal range is like a weapon. Her confidence is blooming so beautifully. Carrie said she is kicking us off on a high note. Tonight is a great night for training ground with the dancers. Luke said all of that was a lot for him to take in. You were the anchor of a crazy, entertaining moment. It was a great moment of entertainment.
Keyla’s Audition on ‘American Idol’
It all started here. We headed to Pensacola, Florida. Keyla is 29 years old and has been a music teacher for six years. Keyla said she sees herself in the kids she teaches. She grew up in the church, singing, but felt she wasn’t good enough. Her son means the world to her; he’s her best friend.
For her audition, she sang “Glitter in the Air” by Pink. She does have a strong voice and hits some good notes along the way. I feel she needs some work in parts, but she definitely makes you feel the emotions of the song.
For the judges, Carrie said sometimes, just let it breathe a little bit. Lionel said he can imagine her blowing the roof off some songs. Luke wants her to start again, but gives her some tips along the way, and he loves it. Then Keyla’s son comes in, after singing with her outside. He is beyond adorable. Luke said that when she sang with confidence, she had a voice that made people stop in their tracks.
The judges voted, and it was three yes votes, as she is also headed to Hollywood Week on “American Idol” season 24. Drew said he can sing, too, so the judges have him sing. Too darn cute!
