Original subtitles

Ryan: Last week on "American Idol,"

the contestants fought for a place in the top 20...

♪ All of these make me who I am ♪

...at Aulani, a Disney resort and spa in Ko Olina, Hawaii.

You're in our top 20.

20, honey! I'm in the top 20!

[ Cheering ]

After the incredible celebrations...

You're not gonna make it into the top 20.

...and gut‐wrenching heartbreak...

[ Sobbing ] It hurts so bad.

[ Cheering ]

...eight of our very best made the cut.

We want you to succeed!

[ Cheering ]

Now, only 12 spots remain.

Will your favorites...

This ain't no joke, you know?

...survive?

What?

♪♪

Dillon: ♪ Gather 'round, people, wherever we roam ♪

♪ And admit that the waters around you have grown ♪

After a long road to the Final Judgment...

♪ And accept that it soon, you'll be drenched to the bone ♪

...Dillon James is about to learn his fate.

It's a blessing to just be here alive,

to be able to breathe in the beautiful air.

So, it's a very surreal moment.

♪ Well, then you better start swimmin' ♪

♪ Or you'll sink like a stone ♪

♪ Oh, the times, they are a‐changin' ♪

You have come through a tunnel.

And last night, you came out of that tunnel.

Thank you.

What we have now is competition all around you.

We are having to cut some great talent.

I'm going to say to you...

...I've got, uh, some good news and some great news.

The good news is that you're an artist,

and the great news is you're in our top 20.

Ah...

Thank you.

Dillon.

Ah...

Maybe in the beginning, you thought you knew,

and you steered hard, but you have surrendered

to not knowing, and that is paying off for you,

because you're putting the trust back into something

bigger than you ‐‐ Lionel: Yeah.

...and you're letting that steer.

If I can get you to just let go and let God...

Yeah. Thank you.

But we've all been in that place where you are.

But I think right now, I'd feel better

if I gave you a big hug to congratulate you.

[ Both laugh ]

Life is funny.

Hey, no, no, no, man.

It's just the adventure, alright?

We're very proud of you.

I respect everything you have to say.

No, no, no, no, no.

We're gonna watch you all the way.

Thank you so much.

Yeah. What a fight, dude.

♪ How many roads must a man walk down ♪

♪ Before you call him a man? ♪

Lionel: Good for him, man. Good for him.

Ah. I think we got the right group.

♪ How many seas must a white dove sail ♪

[ Voice breaking ] I'm excited.

I'm happy. I'm alive.

And I don't know.

It doesn't make a lot of sense to people when I say that,

but it's like ‐‐ that's a real statement from me.

I never thought I would be here.

I wished to go away, and now, as you go through all the steps

to find yourself again,

you start to see the value even in yourself.

♪ The answer, my friend, is blowin' in the wind ♪

I never felt like this.

♪ The answer is blowin' in the wind ♪

What have you?

Man: Are you teary‐eyed?

You made it?

[ Cheering ]

♪ How many times must a man look up ♪

What's racing through your blood right now?

♪ Before he can see the sky? ♪

Take a breath.

Long road.

I'm just happy to be alive.

I made friends. I never had friends.

Like, real friends.

Ryan: We're thrilled that you're part of our top 20, man.

[ Chuckles ] Yes. Congratulations.

Well done.

I knew he could do it, and I never doubted it.

I never doubted it.

♪ The answer, my friend, is blowing in the wind ♪

♪ The answer is blowing in the wind ♪

Grateful for his friends and family,

Dillon is headed to America's vote.

For 20‐year‐old Genavieve Linkowski,

her "Idol" journey has also been about family.

What song are you singing, and why are you singing it?

I'm singing "You Say" by Lauren Daigle.

It just means a lot to me.

I think, you know, when my sister passed away,

I felt very much that I was not enough

because she was by my side since she was born,

and it was just this whole overwhelming sense

of "I can't do this anymore."

♪ I'll find shelter ♪ [ Both chuckle ]

Tragedy can either destroy you or make you stronger.

You have actually grown.

You know, it's hard to be vulnerable,

and it's hard to go to that place of, like,

sadness and, you know, what I've been going through.

You know, the greatest artists are the ones

that can actually take an emotion

and make everybody else feel it, too.

Yeah. Yeah. You connecting is

what's gonna make you successful.

Right. Before you go up,

my advice is to just reset with why you're here

and who you're doing it for.

Yeah.

As you walk out there,

remember why you're singing this song.

[ Cheers and applause ]

♪ I keep fighting voices in my mind ♪

♪ That say I'm not enough ♪

♪♪

♪ Every single lie that tells me I will never measure up ♪

♪ Oh ♪

♪ Taking all I have ♪

♪ And now I'm laying it at Your feet ♪

♪♪

♪ You have every failure, God ♪

♪ You'll have every victory ♪

♪ Oh ♪

♪ You say I am loved ♪

♪ When I can't feel a thing ♪

♪ You say I am strong ♪

♪ When I think I am weak ♪

♪ Oh ♪

♪ You say I am held ♪

♪ When I am falling short ♪

♪ And when I don't belong ♪

♪ Oh, you say I am Yours ♪

♪ And I believe ♪

♪ Oh, I believe ♪

♪ What You say to me ♪

♪ I believe ♪

♪ I believe ♪

Yes! Thank you guys so much!

She's grown. Yes.

I think she could still use

a little bit of growth outside of "Idol."

Lionel: This is a tough one. Tough one.

I'm still rooting.

Whether I go home or whether I stay,

I'm very proud of that performance.

Genavieve.

Yes?

We've seen you grow tremendously.

Thank you. You have had

tragedies and challenges within your family.

I know that's been very, very tough on you,

and you have really stepped up and grown...

Mm‐hmm.

...a lot from the girl that we saw in season one.

You had magic things about your voice

that really, really stood out.

And you came back this year, and we can tell that you worked.

Yeah.

And those things were even better.

Each round of this competition, we've seen that.

Last night, for some reason,

was the first time I didn't feel a big connection.

I didn't feel like we were getting that connectivity thing

that we need as judges,

and...it's to the point in the competition

where you almost have to deliver that every night.

Welcome back to the Final Judgment.

Before the break...

What song are you singing, and why are you singing it?

I'm singing "You Say" by Lauren Daigle.

♪ You say I am loved ♪

♪ When I can't feel a thing ♪

Genavieve: It's been a really, really, really tough year,

but this has been such an amazing light in our lives.

♪ I believe ♪

My sister would have been so, so, so proud of me.

♪ I belieeeeeve ♪

[ Cheers and applause ]

I don't know how it went.

I wasn't, like, super amazed at my vocals,

but, um, I think I accomplished

a lot of what I was trying to accomplish.

Now, will Genavieve get the news

she so desperately wants to hear?

Genavieve.

I wasn't nervous before, but now I'm nervous.

I just don't know what's gonna happen.

It's to the point in the competition where

you almost have to deliver that connection every night.

Yeah. Now, you can leave here

with so much talent, so much promise,

and keep chipping away at it.

I'm sorry to tell you,

but you're not going through to the next round.

Genavieve, can I just say that I am so impressed

by your growth and by your journey?

Lionel: And your strength.

Thank you, guys.

You seriously played a huge part in my growth.

Like, seriously. Oh, please.

Are you kidding me? Luke: Oh, well, thank you.

Thank you, guys, so much. Nice to see you again.

Aww. So nice to see you.

Chin up, now. Thank you.

Nice to see you. Aww.

Thank you so much. I'm rooting for you.

You know what I'm saying. [ Laughs ]

You know what I'm saying, right?

Oh. I'm rooting for you, girl.

I love you guys. You guys are amazing.

Love you. Alright.

Thank you. Thanks so much.

It was great. Yes.

♪ I just want to be... ♪

Man: Oh. No?

Genavieve: Obviously, it's disappointing,

but this is not the end.

Oh.

Love you, guys.

Man #2: Wouldn't miss it.

I'm proud of my journey.

I know that my family is so proud of me

and Corrinn is so proud of me, and, yeah, I'm gonna keep going.

♪♪

Ryan: Franklin Boone. Franklin.

[ Cheers and applause ]

Franklin: Being a professional musician and performer

is a dream for me.

It's what I want to do with my life,

and I've been trying to figure out

how to make that happen for years.

But I feel like if I make it through this round,

it's a huge step in that direction.

I'm a music teacher in Durham, North Carolina.

You guys ready? Yeah.

♪ It's natural ♪

I get the opportunity to encourage these kids

and see them grow, which is really special to me.

[ Cheering ]

This is for Zoe.

I'm singing the song "Daughters" by John Mayer.

♪ I know a girl ♪

♪ She puts the color ♪

Okay. ♪ Inside of my world ♪

Show's over.

The day before my wife told me she was pregnant,

we went out to a karaoke bar, and I just randomly

decided to sing that song, and then the next morning

is when I found out I was having a kid.

So, I always think back to that moment.

♪ Fathers, be good to your daughters ♪

♪ Daughters will love like you do ♪

I love you.

Since Zoe's been here, I look at the world around me

in kind of a different light,

and I have more drive to go all in with music.

♪ Mothers, be good to your daughters, too ♪

Just judging off my performance last night,

I feel like I'm right on the edge,

like it could go either way.

Lionel: You did that walk well.

[ Laughing ] Thank you.

Thank you.

How you doing? [ Exhales sharply ]

Little jittery.

Jittery? That's good. Yeah.

That's good. Means you're living.

Katy: Yeah, that's right, Mr. Franklin.

You've played this modest game,

as Mr. Music Teacher and inspiring your students.

But how can you inspire them

if you're not practicing what you preach?

Have you truly gone after your dreams just, like, swinging?

We're putting together the next level.

Yeah. Franklin: Right.

It's very difficult.

And we have to let some good people go.

Fortunately, you're not one of them.

[ Laughs ] Ah.

Oh. Katy: You're going through

to the top 20, honey!

Oh, my goodness.

20, honey.

[ Laughter ] You guys got me.

[ Chuckles ]

Lionel: Congrats, man. You deserve a spot,

and we really appreciate what you gave us last night,

which was a whole nother level.

♪ Good heart ♪

Give yourself permission now to have an attitude.

Okay. Okay?

Thank y'all for believing in me.

Great job, man. Thanks.

Thank you for the shot.

I can't wait for the students to check it out.

[ Chuckles ] Me neither. Come on.

Oh, my. Be an example.

[ Chuckles ] Congratulations.

Thank you.

♪ Fathers, be good to your daughters ♪

[ Cheering ]

♪ Fathers, be good to your daughters ♪

Franklin: I hope she looks back on this one day

and is really excited about it.

Well, we have the tape.

You can keep the tape,

and you can play it for her any time, okay?

Woman: Yes! Top 20!

Coming up...

Aloha, everybody!

...the road to your top 20 continues.

♪ Ah ♪

♪ Oh ♪

But it won't be a smooth ride.

It's not enough just to be a good singer.

Which of your remaining favorites...

I cannot even believe I did that.

...will get the chance to perform live for your vote?

This is gonna be very interesting.

Plus, one shocking twist...

What?

...is going to change...

This ain't no joke, you know?

...everything.

Bobby: You're not gonna give up, are you?

Welcome back to the Final Judgment...

Are you having fun at the Aulani Resort and Spa?

[ Cheering ]

...where our next contestant has been fully embracing

the aloha spirit.

Alright, have fun.

Aah!

[ Laughs ]

Julia: I love being in Hawaii.

Every day, the weather has been perfect.

Everyone's happy.

I'm loving it.

I'm gonna soak this in while I can.

[ Chuckles ]

Julia Gargano. Julia.

[ Cheers and applause ]

Hi, Julia.

Good luck.

Getting to the top 40 is unreal.

Even just thinking back to when I auditioned,

like, the first round...

Are you gonna sing something you wrote for us?

Julia: Yes.

...I cannot even believe I did that.

♪ When an ocean's ♪

♪ Pouring from the blue skies above me ♪

It's just a memory that,

like, I will tell my grandchildren about.

Oh, my God!

Oh, my God! I can't believe this is happening!

I'm gonna cry!

I think I was able to show who I really was as an artist.

I think you're top five.

Oh, my...

I cannot believe I am in the top 40

of "American Idol" in Hawaii.

Everyone in this round is absolutely incredible.

I hear you have two moves when you're up on stage?

I do. It's either, like,

a patting of my chest or, like, a pointing up.

I like to point up.

Don't know what I'm pointing to, but it's there.

Maybe it's a comfort thing. I don't know.

[ Cheers and applause ]

Julia Gar‐gorgeous.

[ Laughs ]

♪ Have you ever fed a lover ♪

♪ With just your hands? ♪

♪♪

♪ Close your eyes and trust it ♪

♪ Just trust it ♪

♪ Have you ever thrown ♪

♪ A fistful of glitter in the air? ♪

♪♪

♪ Have you looked fear in the face ♪

♪ And said I just don't care? ♪

♪♪

♪ It's only half past the point of no return ♪

♪ The tip of the iceberg ♪

♪ The sun before the burn ♪

♪ The thunder before the lightning ♪

♪ And the breath before the phrase ♪

♪ Have you ever felt this way? ♪

♪ La, la, la, la ♪

♪ La, la, la, la ♪

♪♪

♪ There you are, sitting in the garden ♪

♪ Clutching my coffee ♪

♪ Calling me sugar ♪

I just have to keep reminding myself

that I'm proud of the performance I put on,

no matter what happens,

and either the judges are gonna give me some really good advice

to get better, or I go through.

So, uh, tell us about last night.

For me, personally, it was the most freeing experience.

I loved every second of it, no matter what happens.

And I was really grateful to have that opportunity.

It was really great seeing you step away from the piano.

Like, all we need to do is, "This girl needs a hit song..."

[ Laughs ]

"...and she'll be on the Grammys."

So, how was your voice last night?

Um, it was definitely a little scratchy,

a little rough.

Yeah, I heard the hoarseness towards the end.

Yep.

♪ And you call me sugar ♪

♪ Oh, oh, oh, oh, oh, oh ♪

What happened?

Um, I still have to learn how to wrangle my nerves in

and not let it ruin technique.

Luke: Well, I think you need to remember that

you're a great singer.

Thank you. Sing it a couple times.

Yeah. And be confident knowing

that you're going to deliver a great performance.

So, we still feel like you can go a long, long way.

Maybe all the way.

Lionel: Uh‐huh.

You are definitely in our top 20

and definitely becoming a front runner.

Congratulations.

Push yourself every time. Congratulations.

It's America's choice now.

Congrats.

♪ 'Cause there's a song for everything ♪

I've loved seeing you blossom.

[ Laughs ]

I mean, come on. So wonderful.

Last night, you were just in a glow.

[ Luke laughs ]

Julia: I am over the moon.

I'm just so proud, and I just can't wait to keep doing this.

[ Chuckles ] I just can't believe it.

[ Cheering ] Ryan: Is it?

Is it? It is.

[ Applause ]

There's nothing more magical than seeing someone

that you love coming around that corner

with a smile and, like, the nod of "I did it."

Right? All the hard work.

It's just incredible.

I totally agree with those judges.

They're smart, and they got it right.

[ Laughs ]

[ Cheering ]

Aliana: I am a little nervous because there's a lot of talent

here in top 40.

I'm really scared that I'm going home today.

I really don't want to go home.

Aliana.

[ Chuckles ] You okay?

Not really. [ Chuckles ]

Not really. I was going to say to you.

Like, freaking out on the inside.

From the first time we met you,

you have been a nervous wreck.

[ Luke chuckles ]

Yeah. [ Laughs ] Yeah.

What is she in training for?

Emotional support.

Oh. Ah.

For you?

Me and my dad mostly.

Oh, my God. [ Shrieks ]

Goodness gracious.

So proud of you.

Aliana: I'm here by myself, and I'm intimidated by everybody

because they all have more experience than I do.

So, it's kind of scary, actually.

I really wish my dad was here because he's been, like,

the biggest influence on me and I really wanted to, like,

show what I can do to make him proud.

Woman: Is he your number‐one supporter?

Yes, my ‐‐ Oh.

Who is that?

Surprise!

Oh, my God! Oh, my goodness!

♪ Too long ♪

I'm so happy to see you!

Don't cry!

Why didn't you tell me?

It's a surprise!

I tried calling you, and you didn't answer!

I know. I surprised you, baby.

I can't leave you here by yourself.

We could sense she was feeling homesick,

and I'm just grateful that I have this opportunity

to actually come out here and be able to see her

and support her and cheer her on and just...

'cause it means everything to me.

Darlene: Let's go, let's go, let's go!

[ Cheers and applause ]

I really want to make my dad and step‐mom really proud,

so I'm just gonna give it my best.

[ Cheers and applause ]

♪ I'm not a stranger to the dark ♪

♪ Run away, they say ♪

We've been mumbling behind the scenes

as to who we think might be there and who's gonna go here,

and then we cross our fingers to see if that person

is going to live up to who we think they are.

♪ When the sharpest words wanna cut me down ♪

Sadly enough, they fail.

♪ I'm gonna send a flood, I'm gonna drown them out ♪

♪ I am brave ♪

That did not happen in your case.

Aliana: Really?

You're gonna be in our top 20.

Oh, my God.

♪ This is me ♪

♪ Oh‐oh‐oh‐oh ♪

♪ And I know that I deserve your love ♪

♪ Oh‐oh‐oh‐oh ♪

♪ There's nothing else I'm worthy of ♪

♪ Oh‐oh‐oh, oh‐oh‐oh, oh‐oh‐oh, oh, oh ♪

♪ When the sharpest words wanna cut me down ♪

[ Cheering ]

Oh, my God!

♪ I'm gonna send a flood, I'm gonna drown them out ♪

♪ This is brave, this is proof ♪

♪ This is who I'm meant to be ♪

This is you.

Mwah.

♪ This is me ♪

[ Cheers and applause ]

Aliana!

I'm so happy right now.

I'm excited. I'm just like...

I don't know. I just kind of want to

jump in the pool right now. [ Laughs ]

Ryan: And next, Sophia Wackerman.

[ Cheers and applause ]

Our judges began bragging about Sophia

all the way back in L. A.

[ Cheering ]

Sophia: Oh, my goodness gracious.

Everyone, listen up, listen up, listen up.

This is Sophia, last name to be determined.

[ Laughter ]

And she didn't disappoint in Hollywood,

receiving the coveted standing "O".

Hawaii is a complete 180 from Hollywood Week.

We have time to decompress in Hawaii.

We have time to lay out in the sun, and I have my dad,

brother, aunt, and uncle here with me, which is huge,

especially because we grew up watching "Idol" together.

Who's the host?

Ryan Seacrest!

He's your favorite, right?

Yes, he is the host, isn't he?

He sure is.

My brother James is my favorite person on this planet.

He has something called Fragile X syndrome,

which is a type of intellectual disability.

People with Fragile X tend to have sensory overload,

and it involves large amounts of anxiety.

James and I didn't have that typical sibling relationship,

but what we had was really beautiful

'cause it was just a lot of ‐‐

there was a lot of kindness and love there.

♪ I will love you the same ♪

♪♪

Despite the challenges that he faces,

James is actually really musically talented.

He can play the drums like a beast.

Yeah! Yeah!

Whoo! Nice!

We learned music at the same time,

and to see him watch me perform at such a big caliber,

I feel like that's his success, as well.

James, it means the world to me that you're here.

Yeah.

You're my favorite audience member.

I was a great audience.

You were a great audience.

Yeah! [ Laughs ]

Whoo! Whoo.

[ Cheers and applause ]

♪ I will love you the same ♪

♪♪

♪ Get on my elevator ♪

♪ Baby, we're going up ♪

♪ Give me that now and later ♪

♪ I can't get enough ♪

♪ So much to discover ♪

♪ Please don't stop me now ♪

♪ Every time I touch you ♪

♪ I lift right off the ground ♪

♪ Let them go ♪

♪ All the ones tryna get in the door ♪

♪ I'mma go where they all couldn't go ♪

♪ Up a floor, up a floor, up a floor ♪

♪ Hey ♪

♪ And I know we can get higher ♪

♪ There's levels to your love ♪

♪ Yeah, there's levels to your love ♪

♪ And I know we can get higher ♪

♪ There's levels to your love, and I'll keep on climbing up ♪

♪ Rooftop ♪

♪♪

Wow.

♪♪

♪ Oh, yeah ♪

♪ And I know we can get higher ♪

♪ There's levels to your love ♪

♪ Yeah, there's levels to your love ♪

♪ I know we can get higher ♪

♪ There's levels to your love ♪

♪ And I'll keep on climbing up ♪

♪ And I know we can get higher ♪

♪ There's levels to your love ♪

♪ Oh, babe ♪

♪ There's levels to your love ♪

♪ And I know ♪

♪ We can get higher ♪

♪ There's levels to your love, and I'll keep on climbing up ♪

[ Cheers and applause ]

Shake that hair, girl.

She showed another level of performing.

Sophia: Last night is definitely gonna be one of the highlights

of my entire life.

Man: Congratulations, Sophia. Congratulations.

Whoo!

Getting a yes today from the judges

would mean the absolute world.

It would be really cool to bring my family

that news that I'm moving forward.

But, you know, I don't know what's gonna happen,

and I'm ready for what's ever coming for me.

Hello, Miss Wackerman.

[ Laughs ] Hello, Miss Perry.

[ Laughs ] Take a breath.

Yes.

[ Breathes deeply ]

Katy: Okay.

Let's just cut to the truth.

I think that what you gave last night

was another level of you that we haven't seen.

To see you move your head and dial in your stage presence

a little bit more ‐‐ it was really cool

to see that come out and for you to trust that.

These gentlemen didn't necessarily agree.

I just love how she throws us under the bus.

It's just so amazing. Well, I would tell you.

Look, look. Just threw us under.

We're gonna get her later. Don't worry.

We'll get her later. Don't you worry.

I fought for you. That's just...

I think that it was exciting.

And the closer you get to touching stardom,

you really want to figure the whole thing out.

And you are getting closer

'cause you are going to the top 20.

What? [ Luke laughs ]

Yeah.

So... Come on.

I'm being pranked.

Come on, Sophia. You're not being pranked.

[ Laughs ] What?

No pranks.

Sophia: Oh, my gosh.

I'm in top 20.

What? What?

I ‐‐ I'm ‐‐ I'm in shock.

Thank you.

Congratulations.

We love you.

♪ I shine ♪

Aaah!

I am old, and I'm the host.

Yes. You nailed it.

Hey, guys.

I got in.

[ Cheering ]

♪♪

Oh, we're incredibly proud.

I'm so ‐‐ Ah.

I'm proud of her anyway, but this is ‐‐

Aw, thank you. ...you know, seeing her

performance last night, that was something new.

You have made it to America's vote.

Congratulations.

Thank you so much.

Thank you!

You deserve this moment, alright?

Did I do okay?

Yes.

[ Laughter ]

Woman: He's been telling us all day.

All day. Yeah.

There's nothing more special than having

my family here with me today.

♪ Shine ♪

♪ Ooh ♪

Back with you on "Idol," it's our second trip here

to Aulani Resort in Ko Olina, Hawaii,

and once again, our contestants

were blessed by local kahu Aunty Nettie...

Aunty Nettie: We're very traditional in my family.

I'm not a healer, but I help.

...as they prepare for the biggest performance

of their lives.

Thank you.

I've never been anywhere like here before,

never been on an island, so I am loving it, embracing it,

taking it all in.

And I honestly feel like my daddy

is on this journey with me.

I feel him, like, here in Hawaii with me.

Robert Taylor's journey of self‐acceptance

began with the judges back in Oregon.

Robert: I'm a gay man, and my dad was the only person

in my life that accepted me fully.

He passed in January.

His biggest thing was owning my truth.

♪ I look for you ♪

I thought it was a perfectly done audition.

♪ Every day ♪

Thank you. You're welcome.

Once in Hollywood,

his overconfidence almost cost him everything.

♪ Yeah ♪

Lionel: It was not the greatest.

It was too acrobatic.

♪ As I wandered down the avenue, so confused ♪

My life has been filled with a lot of battles

up until this point, but I've always been a fighter, and...

♪ Guess I'll try and force a smile ♪

...I feel like I'm on the edge of something great.

Ryan: Aulani, show some love for Robert Taylor!

[ Cheers and applause ]

What's up, Hawaii?!

How y'all feeling?!

If you're having a good time, make some noise.

[ Cheering ]

Louder!

Whoo!

That's what I'm talking about.

I want to take y'all on a little trip with me, alright?

Y'all like that? Y'all down for that?

Alright, that's what I'm talking about.

Band.

♪♪

♪ If you feel that it's real ♪

♪♪

♪ And I'm on trial ♪

♪ A‐a‐a‐a‐a‐a‐a‐a‐nd ♪

♪ To your prison ♪

This song is a risk.

♪ Like a coin in your mint ♪

But it's me taking their advice and saying, "You know what?

Let me follow what feels true to me as an artist."

♪ And I'm spent with high treason ♪

I just hope that people can see my heart and embrace me as I am.

One, two, three, four!

♪ Through a glass eye your throne ♪

♪ Is the one danger zone ♪

♪ Take me to the pilot of your soul ♪

♪ Take me to the pilot of your soul ♪

♪ Take me to the pilot ♪

♪ Lead me through the chamber ♪

♪ Take me to the pilot ♪

♪ I am but a stranger ♪

♪ Take me to the pilot ♪

♪ Lead me through the chamber ♪

♪ Take me to the pilot ♪

♪ But a stranger ♪

♪ Na na na, na na na ♪

♪ Na na na na na na na na ♪

♪ Na na na na, na na na na ♪

♪ Na na na na na na ♪

♪ Ooh ♪

♪ Take me toooooooo ♪

♪ The pilot ♪

♪ Whooooooo ♪

♪ Whoooooooo ♪

♪ Of yoooooour ♪

♪ Soooooooul ♪

♪♪

Thank you.

[ Cheers and applause ]

Whoo! Thank you. Pleasure.

I mean...

I don't know.

I guess I'm a little relieved that the performance happened.

I'm just hoping that I did my best

and I left my best out there.

Hey, guys.

Robert.

I'm just grateful for this moment, and again,

I'm just focusing on the good things that are coming.

So, Robert, man, you have had an interesting journey

in this competition.

We have seen you mesmerize us with your vocal talents.

Last night was a little bit all over the map.

You don't have to do all that every time.

I think he just forgot what we had...

Told you. ...talked about.

Right. You perform

and you just let it flow through you.

But you still have to control some of that at moments

to really be at your best.

You are immensely talented, and we've enjoyed watching you,

but it is my unfortunate job to let you know that...

you're not gonna make our top 20.

Keep chasing those dreams.

Okay.

And thank you for working so hard for us.

Yes, sir.

Keep working, but don't overwork it.

Okay. And keep the hair.

Okay. Please.

Thank you. Thank you.

Thank you. Please, keep your chin up.

Thank you. Yes, sir.

Great job.

♪ Just wait and see ♪

I like ‐‐ God, he's talented.

He's talented.

♪ It's not the end of the story ♪

I don't want to do it.

I'm sorry. I‐I ‐‐

I know. I know.

♪♪

Bobby: Alright, so, we're gonna go catch Robert now.

He's just a great performer and a great person,

and I just want to make sure he's in a good place.

I spent a lot of time with him over the last,

you know, few weeks here.

They called me back in 'cause I love you.

I'm not even working today.

Robert.

It's alright to be sad. Listen.

I know that this hurts and sucks,

and I'm just gonna talk from experience.

I spent my whole life getting rejected.

But you're gonna learn and grow so much from this.

Go hurt for a little bit.

But tomorrow, the sun's coming back up again.

Yeah. And you can either

get up and keep going or you can give up.

Mm‐hmm.

And right here ‐‐ you're not gonna give up.

Yeah. Are you?

No.

I know you're not gonna give up.

Okay. Alright?

Okay. I appreciate you.

♪ It ain't sweet ♪

Alright?

If you need me, hit me up.

It is hard. It's a hard pill to swallow.

But it's just another part of life,

and, um, there is more to come.

There is more to come.

♪ It's not the end of the story ♪

Welcome back to the Final Judgment.

Until you went to Hollywood Week for "American Idol,"

you had never been on an airplane?

Is that right? No. [ Laughs ]

First flight, first time to California,

and now here we are in Hawaii on "American Idol."

I'm overwhelmed. Like, I thought I'd be

crying the whole time, but, like, all my emotions are,

like, waiting and waiting.

I feel like none of this is real to me.

It's overwhelming, this much beauty.

Like, I can't take it all in.

It's crazy.

Luckily for 17‐year‐old Kimmy Gabriela,

she's had someone by her side for her entire "Idol" journey.

My dad ‐‐ you know, he's my guide here,

and it's been a bonding experience for the both of us.

He was a famous musician,

so he had all these opportunities,

and now, you know, he's reliving that with me,

and it's kind of cool because this is, like, my story now

and he's a part of it.

I'm really excited to have him here with me.

When I auditioned, my mind‐set was,

"I'm just gonna get as far as I possibly can

and enjoy the experience."

♪ I'll hit the lights, and you lock the door ♪

Her first note, I was like, "Ye‐e‐p!"

[ Laughs ] Lionel: Oh, my God.

You guys...

This is some top‐10 material here, okay?

Congratulations. Thank you so much.

If I don't make it to the top 10,

I'm gonna let myself down, the judges down,

and my dad down ‐‐ I just feel like I'm gonna

let everybody down.

So, how you feeling about the next performance?

Well, I was singing at rehearsal, and, like,

it was definitely intimidating.

Nervous? Yeah.

I couldn't really hear myself up there,

so I'm a little worried, but it's all gonna work out.

It's all gonna work out.

I feel like I'm not gonna put on the biggest show.

I'm not gonna be the greatest "wow" that the audience sees.

But I'm really gonna show my heart,

and I feel like that's just as important sometimes.

[ Drum sticks clacking ]

♪ I see the future ♪

Wow. ♪ Without you ♪

♪ What was I doing in the past? ♪

♪ Now that I've learned all about you ♪

♪ A love just like ours wouldn't last ♪

♪ I won't fall for your games ♪

♪ So don't hate me when I say ♪

♪ That yoooooou ♪

♪ Don't do it for me anymore ♪

♪ Yoooooou ♪

♪ Don't do it for me anymore ♪

♪ Yoooooou ♪

♪ Don't do it for me anymore ♪

♪ Oh, you ♪

♪ You, oh ♪

♪ Don't do it for me ♪

♪ No, no, no, no, no ♪

♪ No, no ♪

♪ Noooooo ♪

Wow.

♪ Oh, oh, oh ♪

♪ Oooh, oh ♪

♪ Don't do it for me ♪

♪ Anymore ♪

[ Cheers and applause ]

Very good.

Thank you so much.

Thank you, boys.

[ Cheers and applause ]

Last night, I might have lived up to my standards,

but I don't think I lived up to their standards.

She needs to pick better songs.

We've had lesser singers

come out here tonight... Yeah.

...that captured us way more.

No, it's very true.

She doesn't hold the room.

Kimmy: I feel scared.

I just have this really weird gut feeling

things aren't gonna go the way I want them to go.

I want this so bad.

I think I've never wanted something more

than to be in the top 20.

Hi, honey.

Hi, y'all.

I just feel like "Idol"

has become such a big part of my life,

and I don't know what I'm gonna do

if I have to let it go so quickly.

Okay, Kimmy, I'm gonna tell it to you straight

because I'm a straight shooter.

I think that, you know, when you first came in ‐‐

what are you, 17?

Lionel: Oh. It's crazy.

Ay. That's nuts.

You sound like a seasoned pro.

You sound like you've been doing this

for a thousand lifetimes.

Your choices and inflections...

[ Smooches ]

Right? Thank you.

Can I be honest with you?

I don't remember you every single time

you've gone on that stage.

And how is that?

Because you have one of...

Best voices. ...the best voices

on this competition. Absolutely.

I mean, it's not enough just to be a good singer.

It's not.

I'm sorry.

Okay, Kimmy, I'm gonna tell it to you straight

because I'm a straight shooter.

I don't remember you every single time

you've gone on that stage.

And how is that?

Because you have one of

the best voices... Best voices.

...on this competition. Absolutely.

I mean, it's not enough just to be a good singer.

It's not.

I'm sorry.

Now's the time to get into the whole package.

"Who am I as an artist? How am I gonna present myself?"

You've got to figure that out, especially going to the top 20.

♪♪

Oh, wait. Okay?

Okay. Katy: I want you...

Katy said you're in the top 20.

Lionel: You're going to the top 20.

...to find you, Kimmy. Did you get that?

Thank you so much.

Thank you for this opportunity.

I will dig. I promise.

You better, girl.

Thank you.

Kimmy: Not gonna lie,

I really thought they were gonna send me home.

Like, I'm just in shock.

♪ Ah, ah, ah ♪

♪ I wanna cut through the clouds, break the ceiling ♪

I don't know how I feel.

This is good.

I'm the toughest bitch. [ Chuckles ]

Luke: Hit them with it.

I'm gonna be a good mom.

My kids are always gonna get it straight.

♪ Oh, yeah ♪ [ Shrieking ]

Congratulations. You got there.

All day, all day.

Oh, my God.

♪ ...with the angels ♪

Getting through to the top 20 ‐‐ it gives us a chance

to keep, you know, living out that legacy

that we're building between the two of us

and share this music bond.

I help you, in anything.

Whatever you want, whatever you need.

Thank you, Papi.

100%. [ Chuckles ]

♪ Cut to the feeling ♪

And with that, 14 spots in our top 20 have been filled.

♪ You can say anything you wanna say ♪

And sadly, some fell just short of their dream.

How's it going?

♪ Hate me, but I'm gonna love you anyway ♪

The dreaded long walk.

[ Laughs ] Yeah.

I think you've grown so much, it is unbelievable.

I truly want you to know how talented you are as a musician.

You're so unique.

You have that cry in your voice.

But this is the part of the competition where

you've got to have everything buttoned up.

♪ You can throw your daggers, you can sink 'em in ♪

Unfortunately, this is the end

of the "American Idol" journey for you.

We're very proud of you.

Thank you. Luke: Thank you.

Okay? Thank you so much.

You come back twice as strong, 'cause I know you can.

Okay. Okay, Grace?

Luke: Thank you, Grace.

Thank you guys. Katy: Yeah.

♪ You can knock me down, but I'll get up again ♪

I'm excited to keep going with my music

and keep pursuing my dream and my passion.

They told me to come back.

They told you to come back? Yeah.

Oh, my gosh.

Don't worry. You are incredible.

Don't worry.

I'm really proud of myself.

I definitely went farther than I thought I could,

and, um, I've grown a lot as an artist.

♪ Stronger than your bruises, I've got thick skin ♪

Thank you.

Every time someone comes through those doors,

like, looking upset, I'm always, always surprised,

but I know that 20 have to go home regardless.

My journey has definitely been a long time coming,

but I truly have enjoyed every single step.

My name is Shannon Gibbons.

I'm from Long Island, New York.

How long you been singing?

I've been singing since I was 4 years old.

It's clear to me now that when I was younger,

I dealt with a lot of mental health issues.

Depression has been something that's been in my life

for a long time.

Music got my mind off it.

I ain't letting any more people go through

unless they're as good as Shannon.

You're the standard.

Shannon standard.

Thank you.

Shannon: Since the judges were so positive,

I think that was my biggest motivator.

[ Cheering ]

Now I got to show up and even be better.

Bobby: If you just look like you're having

the kind of fun you were having earlier...

Yeah. ...I mean,

that's the separator.

♪ This was all you, none of it me ♪

♪ You put hands on my body and told me ♪

♪ Mm ♪

♪ You told me you were ready ♪

♪ For the big one, for the big jump ♪

♪ I'd be your last love ♪

♪ Everlasting you and me ♪

You know, you never really think that dreams

this big are attainable, but here we are.

♪ I'm giving you up ♪

♪ I've forgiven it all ♪

♪ You set me free‐ee‐ee ♪

♪ Oh ♪

♪ Send my love to your new lover ♪

♪ Treat her better ♪

♪ Gotta let go of all our ghosts ♪

♪ We both know we ain't kids no more ♪

♪ Send my love to your new lover ♪

♪ Treat her better ♪

♪ Gotta let go of all of our ghosts ♪

♪ We both know we ain't kids no more ♪

♪ Oh ♪

♪ Send my love to your new lover ♪

♪ Whoa ♪

♪ Treat her better ♪

♪ Oh, oh ♪

♪ Gotta let go of all of our ghosts ♪

♪ We both know we ain't kids no more ♪

[ Cheers and applause ]

Yesterday was definitely the highlight moment.

I think I gave it my all, vocally and performance‐wise.

Getting into the top 20 would mean everything to me.

Katy: This was not easy.

No, no, no.

Shannon: How are you guys?

That outfit was made for the wind.

[ Chuckles ] How are you guys?

Good, good. Katy: We're good.

How are you? [ Chuckles ]

Shannon: Good. We are mixed emotions

because we are attached to you all, and...

Yeah. ...we just thought we were

a part of a feel‐good show, and now we have to deliver

both bad and good news.

Yeah? Shannon...

how did you feel like you did last night?

I mean, I thought I did well.

Um, I think I can definitely give

a lot stronger of a vocal performance,

but I was really, like, vibing off the crowd,

and I was just having fun.

I was kind of just letting it rip.

That is the best. I'm telling you.

Yeah. Uh‐huh. The crowd and ‐‐

Yeah.

Uh, Shannon, we thought you did well, as well.

You've got a cool voice. Thank you.

It's got a lot of grit to it.

I think you can figure out who you are even more as an artist

because you can't just lean on the texture of your voice.

Yep.

There's a lot of great singers out there.

Yeah. Mm‐hmm.

So, we're getting to a place where it's really hard,

and sometimes it doesn't make sense.

We see your potential.

Unfortunately, this is gonna be the end

of the "American Idol" journey for you.

Your voice is so unique,

but you seem to sometimes blend in just a little bit.

It's one of those things ‐‐

you just got to look at it as "I'm gonna be a star."

I see that for you.

You got to see that for yourself.

I know you can get there.

You're so young.

Yeah. For sure.

Thank you so much. Thank you guys.

We love you. I really appreciate it.

Thank you. Love your tone.

Thank you so, so much. Thank you.

Bless you. Thank you. Bless you.

Yeah. Thank you. Thank you so much.

Really appreciate the journey.

I only do hugs. Thank you.

Thank you so much.

Appreciate it. Keep working.

Thank you. I will. Okay?

Keep working and developing.

Thank you.

♪ My salvation ♪

Shannon: I'm a little bit shocked,

to be honest, but that's okay.

There is obviously 20 people that they thought

deserved it a little bit more than I did.

♪ You are the snowstorm ♪

I mean, it is what it is.

I'm a huge believer in everything happens

for a reason, so...

♪ Oh ♪

Woman: Whoo! Whoo!

Enh.

No? Yeah.

I'll 100% keep going.

I mean, I'm still feeling confident.

It was a great trip.

Great journey.

A lot to learn.

All endings are great starts.

♪ My, my ♪

Welcome back to the Final Judgment.

For these next young hopefuls...

We're in Hawaii! ...the fun has only

just begun here at Disney's Aulani Resort.

Whoo!

Olivia: Spending time with the other girls

in the minor group was just amazing.

Boom, boom!

All of the teenagers were all like this.

We all got matching rings together.

♪ So obsessed 'cause... ♪

My first time being here.

So, you know, I'm getting to enjoy the resort.

This view is nice!

The younger... Represent, baby.

...contestants are here.

And at last night's showcase, our youngest competitors

brought that same zest to the stage.

My foot hit that last stair, I was like, "This is it.

Nerves, go away."

Aloha, everybody!

Oh, no!

♪ Hey, sista, go, sista, soul sista ♪

♪ He met Marmalade down in Old New Orleans ♪

I've been singing since I was 2 years old,

and so it's just a rush that you get on stage.

It's like you feel great.

♪ Oh ♪

♪ Gitchie, gitchie, ya‐ya, da‐da ♪

♪ Gitchie, gitchie, ya‐ya, here ♪

♪ Mocha chocolata, ya‐ya ♪

♪ Creole Lady Marmalade ♪

Wow!

[ Vocalizing ]

♪ Voulez‐vous coucher avec moi? ♪

♪ Ce soir ♪

♪ Voulez‐vous coucher avec moi? ♪

♪ Touch of her skin, feeling silky smooth ♪

♪ The color of café au lait ♪

♪ The savage beast aside that roars 'til he cries ♪

♪ More, more, more ♪

♪ Yeah ♪

♪ Gitchie, gitchie, ya‐ya, da‐da ♪

She came to take that bank.

♪ Gitchie, gitchie, ya‐ya, here ♪

♪ Yeah ♪

♪ Mocha chocolata, ya‐ya ♪

♪ Creole Lady Marmalaaaaade ♪

♪ Voulez‐vous coucher avec moi? ♪

♪ Ce soir ♪

♪ Voulez‐vous coucher avec moi? ♪

♪ Voulez‐vous coucher avec moi? ♪

♪ Ce soir ♪

♪ Creole Lady Marmalaaaaaade ♪

♪ Yeah ♪

[ Cheers and applause ]

♪♪

♪ Now, I'm out here lookin' like revenge ♪

♪ Feelin' like a 10, the best I ever been ♪

♪ And, yeah, I know how bad it must hurt to see me like this ♪

♪ But it gets worse ♪

♪ Wait a minute ♪

♪ Now, payback is bad chick ♪

♪ And, baby, I'm the baddest ♪

♪ Yo, you're playin' with a savage ♪

♪ Can't have this, can't have this ♪

♪ Ah ♪

♪ And if you're nice to me ♪

♪ I'll take it easy on ya, but nah ♪

Sing!

♪ Baby, I'm sorry ♪

♪ I'm not sorry ♪

♪ Baby, I'm sorry ♪

♪ I'm not sorry ♪

♪ Bein' so bad ♪

I didn't even think I would make it past Hollywood Week,

and now I'm here, and it's such a dream come true.

♪ ...like I knew that I would ♪

♪ Baby, I'm sorry ♪

♪ I'm not sorry ♪

♪ Baby, I'm sorry ♪

♪ I'm not sorry ♪

♪ Feelin' inspired 'cause the tables have turned ♪

♪ Yeah, I'm on fire, and I know that it burns ♪

Ready?

♪ Talk that talk, baby ♪

♪ Better walk, better walk that walk, baby ♪

♪ If you talk, if you talk that talk, baby ♪

♪ Better walk, better walk that walk, baby ♪

Sing!

♪ Baby, I'm sorry ♪

Let me hear you!

♪ I'm not sorry ♪

♪ Baby, I'm sorry ♪

♪ I'm not sorry ♪

♪ Bein' so bad ♪

♪ Got me feelin' so good ♪

♪ Showin' you up ♪

♪ Hey, hey ♪

♪ Noooo ♪

♪ Baby, I'm sorry ♪

♪ I'm not sorry ♪

♪ Baby, I'm sorry ♪

♪ I'm not sorry ♪

♪ Bein' so bad got me feelin' so good ♪

♪ Showin' you up ♪

♪ And I'm sorry, not sorry, not sorry, babe ♪

[ Cheers and applause ]

♪♪

♪ What you want ♪

♪ Baby, I got it ♪

♪ What you need ♪

♪ Did you know I got it? ♪

♪ All I'm askin' ♪

♪ Is for a little respect ♪

Yes, I had the attitude,

I had sass, I felt like the whole thing.

♪ Yeah, whoo ♪

♪ Ooh ♪

♪ Oh, your kisses ♪

♪ Ooh ♪

♪ Are sweeter than honey ♪

♪ Ooh ♪

♪ And guess what ♪

♪ Ooh ♪

♪ So is my money ♪

♪ Ooh ♪

♪ All I want you to do for me ♪

♪ Is give it to me when you get home ♪

♪ Re, re, re, re ♪

♪ Yeah, baby ♪

♪ Respect, just a little bit ♪

♪ Just a little bit ♪

♪ R‐E‐S‐P‐E‐C‐T ♪

♪ Find out what it means to me ♪

♪ R‐E‐S‐P‐E‐C‐T ♪

♪ Take care of TCB ♪

♪ Sock it to me, sock it to me, sock it to me, sock it to me ♪

♪ Sock it to me, sock it to me, sock it to me, sock it to me ♪

♪ Baby ♪

♪ Just a little bit ♪

♪ Whoo ♪

♪ Just a little bit ♪

♪ I get tired ♪

♪ Just a little bit ♪

♪ I keep on tryin' ♪

♪ Just a little bit ♪

♪ You're runnin' out of fools ♪

♪ Just a little bit ♪

♪ But I ain't lyin' ♪

♪ Just a little bit ♪

♪ So, when you come home ♪

♪ You might walk in ♪

♪ And find out I've gone ♪

♪ You've got to have ♪

♪ A little respeeeeeeect ♪

♪♪

[ Cheers and applause ]

♪♪

How are you?

I'm good. How are you?

17 years old, and you've gotten this far,

and you walked out on that stage last night,

looked the crowd straight in the eye, and beat them up.

You gave us that "it" factor.

So, congratulations.

You earned a spot into the top 20!

Ah, I love it.

♪ First time high, my love ♪

Thank you so much.

I've wanted to hear that my whole life.

Well, you got it.

♪ Ooh ♪

♪ But this time I'm giving up ♪ Oh, my God!

♪ You hit me like first time high, my love ♪

I just made it to the top 20,

and it's been a dream of mine since I was 2.

I'm so thankful, it's not even funny.

Everything just, like ‐‐ like my life was just made.

Luke: Congrats.

Lionel: Whoo.

I'm so overwhelmed.

Like...ooh!

Um, it means a lot.

I've worked really hard.

It's nice that I get to, you know, prove to people that,

like, I can do this.

I'm not sure it knocked me and Lionel and Katy

completely out of the park,

and from one Georgia person to another,

I have been fighting for you and fighting for you today.

Ryan: Here she comes.

Did she get it? I'm just kidding.

♪ You hit me like first time high, my love ♪ [ Cheering ]

♪ You hit me like first time high, my love ♪

♪ Hit me like, ooh ♪

I'm really, really, really happy.

Really happy.

♪ You hit me like first time high, my love ♪

With three more spots taken,

our next young star is ready to make her mark.

♪ I'm feelin' myself... ♪

Olivia: Being in Hawaii with all the other contestants

is amazing.

It's definitely great to have friends,

but my dream is to be the next "American Idol" star.

I am competitive.

Nice to meet you.

And now that I'm here, I need to actually,

you know, push for it.

Ah, yes. I'm doing both.

You're doing both? Okay.

I'm singing "Proud Mary" by Tina Turner.

I'm super excited to perform that.

I choreographed it myself,

and I've been practicing my dance moves.

Oh, that's it. Oh, I can probably do that.

[ Laughs ] Don't laugh.

You can at least play it cool, like I'm...

Yes. 'Cause we can edit me

looking good, but because you laughed so hard...

We can do it one more time. Okay.

Ready? We'll just edit it. Ready?

And go. Yeah. One, two, go.

Tell me how good I am. Tell me how good I'm doing.

Yes. Tell me I nailed it.

Oh, yes, you nailed it. Thank you very much.

Thank you. That was beautiful.

See you tonight.

I do think I have a lot to prove

since I am one of the younger people in the competition.

I'm super nervous,

but I'm trying to get all the jitters out.

I just want the judges to see how much

I worked hard on this performance.

[ Chanting ] Let's go, Olivia!

[ Rhythmic clapping ]

I'm just gonna dance my heart out and sing my heart out.

[ Cheers and applause ]

Here she come, now!

Little girl coming to kill!

Are y'all ready to end the night with some dancing?

[ Cheers and applause ]

I think that coat is a prop.

[ Chuckles ]

I mean, I hope, 'cause, you know, I love a reveal.

I'mma take it way back.

♪ Left a good job in the city ♪

♪ Working for the man every night and day ♪

♪ And I never lost one minute of sleep ♪

♪ Worrying 'bout the way things might have been ♪

♪ Big wheels keep on turning ♪

♪ Proud Mary keep on burning ♪

♪ And we're rolling ♪

♪ Rolling ♪

♪ We're rolling ♪

♪ Rolling ♪

♪ Rolling on the river ♪

[ Cheers and applause ]

Come on, Aulani Resort!

Let's dance!

One, two, three, go!

[ Music tempo increases ]

[ Luke laughs ]

♪ Well, I left a good job in the city ♪

♪ Working for the man every night and day ♪

♪ And I never lost one minute of sleep ♪

♪ Worrying 'bout the way things might have been ♪

♪ Big wheels keep on turning ♪

♪ Turning ♪

♪ Proud Mary keep on burning ♪

♪ Rolling ♪

♪ Rolling ♪

♪ Rolling on the river ♪

♪ Say, we're rolling ♪

♪ Rolling ♪

♪ Rolling on the river ♪

♪ Do, do, do, do, do, do, do, do ♪

♪ Do, do, do, do ♪

♪ Rolling ♪

♪ Rolling ♪

♪ Rolling on the river ♪

♪ Yeah, yeah, yeah ♪

♪♪

Pow!

Thank you so much!

Thank you.

Luke: How you do it?

[ Laughing ] Oh, you go... ♪ Do‐do‐do‐do ♪

Ow!

Oh, my God.

Whoo!

That was amazing.

I'm out of breath.

I need some water.

And I need to pee.

Oh, my God.

Oh, my God. That was amazing.

Aah!

Right now, I'm super nervous and anxious

just to hear my results.

Ryan: Olivia Ximines. Olivia.

[ Cheers and applause ]

Good luck, Olivia.

Thank you.

I would definitely feel sad if I went home.

I want to make it to the top 20 so bad.

Like, so, so, so bad.

I truly believe I have what it takes.

Olivia, let me just say this to you.

From the first time we laid eyes on you

and your dance troupe...

[ Laughter ]

...and your ‐‐ Your squad.

...your squad. Yes.

Luke: Your squad. [ Chuckles ]

I am dying to know what they have said.

They're totally going crazy right now.

I haven't really told them anything or updated them.

Right. 'Cause I'm trying to

keep it a secret, you know?

But they know you're still gone.

Yes. [ Lionel laughs ]

They know I'm still gone. Yeah.

How's your high school reacting?

They don't know.

Really? Your high school

doesn't know you're doing "Idol"?

No. I haven't told anyone yet besides my dance team.

[ Chuckles ] How do you keep that a secret?

I really don't know. It's hard.

But, you know, I understand what she's doing,

and by the way, it's very well thought out

because the worst thing to do is build it up,

build it up, ah... Yeah.

Right? Exactly. Yeah.

So, last night, this Tina Turner attitude.

[ Laughter ]

You just brought us back full circle

to kind of give us a reminder

that you not only sing, but you move.

Your energy, your smile ‐‐ it was quite amazing.

Thank you.

And I'm going to be actually the one to tell you.

You need to call your high school

and fill them in on what's going on

because you're in our top 20.

You're going to the next step.

Thank you. We love you.

Oh!

I don't even know how I'm gonna tell them.

[ Laughter ]

You better tell them.

Oh, please. [ Chuckles ]

That's awesome.

So sweet.

You can't keep it from your hometown anymore.

No, no, no, no, no. I can't.

It is no longer a secret.

Whoo! And I got to tell my school.

[ Laughter ] I'll practice that.

Top 20. Thank you so much.

Going that way. Thank you.

We love you.

Oh, my goodness.

Oooh.

Ooh, ooh, ooh.

Wow.

I just got a yes.

I'm in the top 20.

I didn't know I was gonna get this far,

so this experience has built my confidence to...

measures I can't even explain, and I'm just ‐‐ I'm so thankful.

Aaaah!

[ Cheering ]

♪♪

I'm in the top 20!

This moment is literally huge to me right now,

and I'm so happy that I have my family here to support me.

♪ Top 20 ♪

♪ Top 20 ♪

♪ Top 20 ♪

♪ Top 20 ♪

[ Cheering ]

♪ We're still counting stars ♪

♪ Like we were 16 ♪

All: Whoo, whoo, whoo, whoo, whoo!

[ Vocalizing ]

Coming up...

It's not easy, but nothing great comes easily.

...more from the Final Judgment.

I'm gonna rip the Band‐Aid off.

Plus, a twist no one saw coming.

We couldn't make a decision, so...

Lauren: Oh, my gosh!

Grace Leer: This is crazy.

Ryan: Welcome back to the Aulani Resort,

where this shoreline played host

to those do‐or‐die performances with the top 40.

Let's get back in the chair.

Arthur: I really didn't expect that I would be this far.

I'm still trying to grasp it all.

"American Idol" ‐‐ it's been a long journey

and very, you know, very exciting, though.

Arthur, how are you?

I'm doing good. How are you guys doing?

Doing very well, my friend.

Nice. Thanks for having me.

Arthur, you are probably one of our

most unique contestants.

Wow.

Because when you walked in,

we didn't quite know what to expect.

And then you opened your mouth,

and you had instant identity.

♪ When it's over, so they say ♪

♪ It will rain a sunny day ♪

♪ Well, I know ♪

There it is.

♪ Shinin' down like water ♪

[ Chuckles ]

♪♪

♪ But I wanna know ♪

♪ Well, have you ever seen the rain? ♪

♪ Yeah ♪ Lionel: Oh, my God.

♪♪

♪ Well, I wanna know ♪

♪ Well, have you ever seen the rain? ♪

♪♪

♪ Comin' down ♪

♪ On a sunny day? ♪

[ Cheers and applause ]

He reminds me of Bob Marley.

And last night, when he took the stage,

Arthur paid homage to the man himself.

Aloha. Aloha. I want to thank my family.

[ Cheers ]

I'm doing Bob Marley.

And...yeah, one for the Rastafarian.

[ Laughs ]

He's so pure.

Oh, I love him. I just love him.

He's so pure.

Arthur: One, two, a‐one, two, three...

Bobby: Is there anything that you're nervous about,

performing on that stage?

♪ So, I want to love you ♪

♪ To love and treat you right ♪

Look at that crowd.

♪ I want to love you ♪

I think it takes a lot of courage

to be so vulnerable on such a big stage.

Coming from Nepal to America

and chasing a career in music ‐‐ that takes a lot of guts.

I want to, like, encourage, like,

all the youths around the world, like, to go for it.

I like it. I love it.

Hey.

♪ Of my single bed ♪

♪ We'll share the same room ♪

♪ Since I'll provide the bread ♪

♪ Is this love, is this love, is this love ♪

♪ Is this love that I'm feelin'? ♪

♪ Is this love, is this love, is this love ♪

♪ Is this love that I'm feelin'? ♪

What I love is the crowd ‐‐ Watch the crowd.

Right. He gets them kind of electric.

♪♪

♪ I wanna know, wanna know, wanna know now ♪

♪♪

Oh, yeah.

♪ I got to know, got to know, got to know now ♪

♪♪

♪ So, I‐I‐I‐I‐I‐I ♪

♪ I'm willing and able ♪

♪ So, I‐I‐I‐I‐I ♪

♪ Throw my cards on your table ♪

♪ Say, well, I wanna love you ♪

♪ Love and treat you right ♪

♪ And I wanna love you ♪

♪ Every day and every night ♪

[ Cheers and applause ]

Well done!

Thank you. Thank you very much.

Thank you.

So good.

♪♪

Arthur, so, remember in the very beginning, your eyes,

they were closed and you weren't connecting?

So, last night, you went in and out of that

still just a little bit.

But the moments that you did open your eyes

are the moments that we...

just went on the journey with you.

So, keep connecting, keep your eyes open, you know?

Like, let us in.

I'm going to... Rip the Band‐Aid.

I'm going to rip the Band‐Aid off.

You are pure light.

Thank you. You are pure light.

You sure are.

Your job is to come and anoint the world

with your gift. [ Chuckles ]

We have had some very hard decisions to make.

You, my friend, are probably the easiest

decision we ever made. [ Chuckles ]

You're in our top 20, and you're our shining star.

Thank you for this.

Congrats. Congratulations.

[ Chuckles ]

Woman: How do you feel?

Feels amazing.

Take care.

♪ 'Cause every little thing ♪

I like this kid.

♪ Gonna be all right ♪

Whoo!

♪ Of melodies pure ♪

What happened? Did they say yes or no?

Yeah, they said yes.

Oh.

[ Cheers and applause ]

I'm proud of you.

I hope you're happy.

So, fan favorite Arthur Gunn joins our top 20.

♪ I won't worry ♪

Oh.

Which means one less spot,

and the holding room is on edge.

Demi Rae: You see great people walk out with no's.

It's like, what chance do you have?

It could be the best performance,

but it could still not be good enough.

Being enough was something

26‐year‐old Demi Rae struggled with

at our Oregon auditions.

Have you ever professionally pursued this?

No.

I get really insecure.

Why?

Because I don't look like the other girls.

There's probably not someone that looks like you

because you're supposed to be the one that looks like you.

Demi Rae: For a long time, I didn't have any confidence

and I was really insecure.

I was almost this close to giving up my dream.

Hearing Katy Perry say those words to me

made me feel like I deserve to be here.

♪ Feel the tears fall down ♪

Being on "American Idol" has really changed me.

You killed it!

Thank you so much. You killed it!

♪♪

♪ I'm spending more than I earn ♪

♪ Drink all the time and forget that I'm her ♪

♪ And I go to parties sometimes ♪

♪ And I'll kiss a boy and pretend for the night ♪

♪ I don't know much about me ♪

♪ And I'm still ashamed of who I used to be ♪

♪ So I try way too hard ♪

♪ I still miss the mark to fit in, oh ♪

♪ Fit in, oh, yeah ♪

♪ Help me, yeah ♪

Wow.

♪ Oh, please someone help me, yeah ♪

♪ I don't care, anyone, anything ♪

♪ I'm so sick of being so lonely, ooh ♪

This was the best performance of my whole entire life.

♪ Help me, yeah ♪

And music literally is my whole world.

♪ I'm so sick of being so lonely ♪

♪ Oh ♪

♪ I miss all my family ♪

♪ Whoa, yeah ♪

♪ I don't care, anyone, anything ♪

♪ I'm so sick of being so ♪

♪ Lonely ♪

[ Cheers and applause ] Lionel: Wow.

Wow.

I gave it my all on that stage, and I hope I did enough.

♪♪

I want this so bad.

This is ‐‐ this is my dream.

I just want to sing, and I want people to love it,

and I want them to sing, too, with me.

Katy: So, you've come a long way.

How do you feel?

I feel on top of the world.

It's been a lot of hard work.

This ain't no joke, you know?

[ Laughter ] No, honey.

This ain't no joke, you know?

It's not easy.

[ Voice breaking ] It's not.

But nothing great comes easily.

And we are so proud of you because I think

you have fought that battle, and this is the start

of the new Demi for you.

And nothing can take that away from you.

But it's the end

of the "American Idol" journey for you, though.

And I think you got exactly what you came for,

is that new foundation of you.

Yeah.

Thank you guys so much. Experience.

We're very proud of you. Thank you.

Luke: We're very proud of you. Thank you.

Lionel: Very proud of you.

Katy: Love you. I love you, too.

♪ I got no regrets ♪

♪ Don't know what comes next ♪

I'm not completely broken, but rejection's never fun.

♪ Tried to keep it small, it wasn't enough ♪

I love you. I love you, too.

You know what? My no is somebody else's yes,

and I'm okay with that because it's not my time right now.

♪ I got no regrets ♪

You guys are gonna do amazing.

Life goes on, and I'll go on.

This is not the end for me.

This is just the beginning.

♪♪

Welcome back to the Final Judgment

from Aulani Resort,

where, so far, 38 contestants have received their results.

And now, just two remain ‐‐ Grace Leer and Lauren Mascitti.

We are down to the bitter end,

and the judges have asked to see you both

at the same time.

Ugh. Great.

I'm already gonna cry.

We were roommates this week, and we're both from Nashville,

and we're both country singers,

and we've really bonded. Yeah.

And so...

So, going in together might be a cool thing, then,

since you guys are so close? Yeah.

Yeah. Yeah.

Alright. Let's go do it.

Good luck.

Thank you. You're welcome.

Thank you. You're welcome.

Although our two country standouts

are finding themselves in the exact same position...

This is gonna be very interesting to see

how this turns out.

...their paths to "American Idol"

were very different.

Have you ever auditioned for stuff like this?

I have. Way back when.

Ryan: Welcome back to "American Juniors."

Next, the moment of truth for Grace Leer.

♪ One step closer to Heaven, baby ♪

♪ Means one step closer to you ♪

I've been doing this for so long.

You know, I'm still riding this dream,

and no matter what happens,

I'm not gonna stop doing what I love,

but, you know, this is a big moment.

Seeing my family in the crowd ‐‐ it's gonna mean a lot.

I know they're proud,

and I know they've been supporting me for so long,

and I just want to perform for them and my friends.

How are we doing, everybody?

[ Cheers and applause ]

And I just want to make everybody proud

in doing what I love.

♪♪

♪ Looking out on the morning rain ♪

Wow. Now we're going.

♪ Oh ♪

♪ I used to feel so uninspired ♪

♪ Oh ♪

♪ And when I knew ♪

♪ I had to face another day ♪

Holy crap! There you go!

Smooth.

♪ Lord, it made me feel so tired ♪

♪ Before the day I met you ♪

♪ Oh, life was so unkind ♪

♪ But you're the key to my peace of mind ♪

♪ 'Cause you make me feel ♪

♪ Yeah, you make me feel ♪

Teach the children. [ Laughs ]

♪ You make me feel like a natural woman ♪

♪♪

♪ Oh, baby, what you've done to me ♪

♪ What you've done to me ♪

♪ You ♪

♪ You make me feel so good inside ♪

♪ Good inside ♪

♪ And I ♪

♪ I just, I want to be ♪

♪ Want to be ♪

♪ Close to you ♪

♪ You make me feel so alive ♪

♪ Oh, you make me feel ♪

♪ Yeah, you make me feel ♪

♪ You make me feel like a natural woman ♪

♪ You make me feel ♪

♪ Yeah ♪

♪ You make me feel ♪

♪ Yeah, you make me feel like a natural ♪

♪ Woman ♪

♪ Natural woman ♪

[ Cheers and applause ]

Thank you.

Thank you so much.

Thank you.

[ Cheers and applause ]

Thank you.

Perfect!

God, that's so awesome!

Oh, my God!

She literally came out here and, like, made everyone

look like they were on a talent show.

Absolutely.

She checked all the boxes on that one.

Ryan: Alright, Aulani, are you guys ready

for your next performer?

[ Cheers and applause ]

Here she is ‐‐ Lauren Mascitti!

[ Crowd chanting "Lauren!" ]

I have a feeling my nana might have started that.

[ Chanting continues ]

For Lauren, this performance was years in the making.

I always knew I wanted to be a singer,

and a lot of sacrifice has happened,

especially on my Nana and Pa‐Paw's side of things,

and hopefully this is my time.

It's been a long time coming, so...

What do you think about that?

I think that's country.

Yeah, I think that's country, too.

It makes you feel good, huh?

Dee: I'm so happy she's here.

Really. I can't even explain it.

I really can't even.

Don't make me cry.

Yeah? You been rolling with her for a long time?

Since she was 7 years old.

And what have you guys been doing since she was 7?

Well, she started out in church,

and then she had her own little ministry,

and she sang for the Lord all those years.

Well, she's really happy to have you here.

She's lucky to have you here.

Dee: I think it's the valleys

that make you love the mountaintop,

and so now, I'm hoping it's time

for the mountaintop. [ Chuckles ]

[ Cheers and applause ]

Here we go.

♪♪

A‐one, a‐two.

A‐one, two, three, four.

♪♪

Oh, yeah.

Whoo!

♪ We came out west together with a common desire ♪

♪♪

♪ The fever we had might've set the west coast on fire ♪

♪ Two months later, got trouble in mind ♪

♪ My baby moved out and left me behind ♪

♪ But it's alright 'cause it's midnight ♪

♪ And I got two more bottles of wine ♪

Wow.

♪ Well, the way he left sure turned my head around ♪

I like her.

♪♪

♪ Seemed like overnight he just up and put me down ♪

♪ Well, I ain't gonna let it bother me today ♪

♪ I been workin', and I'm too tired anyway ♪

♪ But it's all right 'cause it's midnight ♪

♪ And I got two more bottles of wine ♪

♪♪

♪ Well, I'm 1,600 miles from the people I know ♪

♪♪

♪ I've been doin' all I can ♪

♪ But opportunity sure comes slow ♪

♪ Lord, I'll be in the sun all day ♪

♪ When I'm sweepin' out a warehouse in west L. A. ♪

♪ But it's all right 'cause it's midnight ♪

♪ And I got two more bottles of wine ♪

♪ Well, it's all right 'cause it's midnight ♪

♪ And I got two more bottles of wine ♪

♪ Well, it's all right 'cause it's midnight ♪

♪ And I got two more bottles of wine ♪

♪ Ooh, ooh, ooh ♪

♪ Yeah ♪

All right! Thank you!

She is just so gorgeous and...

Classic. ...classic and classy.

Right.

It was incredible.

Aah!

I hope everybody felt it.

I had a good time.

How do you even describe it right now?

Yeah. I mean, I'm rooting for her,

and of course I don't want to go home.

You know, we're both doing what we love,

but it's out of our hands now.

Long day.

Yes. Very long day.

Very long day.

We have arrived to the last two.

You're kind of like the retro country girls,

kind of throwing it back a little bit.

Have y'all counted how many people have went through?

We think there's only one spot left.

Correct.

There is one... Darn it.

...spot left.

We think both are going through.

That's right. [ Chuckles ]

Yeah, we hope for both.

We think they should go through.

We are ‐‐ Yes.

Your performances last night ‐‐

both of them were really great.

Really great.

Really great. Thank you.

Lauren, you showed us this rocking side

that we haven't seen, and Grace ‐‐

really one of the winners of the night...

Oh. ...in my opinion.

Wow. Yeah.

Really, really... That's a major compliment.

Thank you. Thank you. Katy: Showed up.

So, we have one position left.

And, uh, we couldn't make a decision.

We just couldn't agree.

Breathe.

Man: Oh, yeah. [ Exhales sharply ]

♪♪

Oh, my gosh!

What?

This is insane.

Good luck to both families, both sides.

I see her.

Here we are, all together.

Man: Okay.

Okay. [ Laughs ]

So...

So, this thing happened.

So, they loved both of our performances.

Yeah?

They fought over us. They couldn't decide.

They couldn't come up with a decision.

So... So...

So, you guys aren't out of the woods yet.

We're gonna turn it over to America

to watch your performance from last night,

and we're gonna let them vote who makes it into the top 20.

Oh, my gosh.

We're sorry to extend your anxiety.

[ Laughs ]

But we love you both.

Oh, my gosh!

So, we'll say to you both congratulations,

and may America take control.

Oh, my gosh. Oh, my gosh.

Oh, my God.

♪ We can keep ♪

Ryan: So right now...

So, it's top 21.

Alright!

[ Cheering ]

Congratulations.

Lauren, nice job!

Good luck. [ Chuckles ]

I love you. Love you, too.

[ Chuckles ]

What a finish at the Aulani Resort

as I present the top 21.

[ Cheering ]

But it's time for you to start voting

to help create our top 20.

It's between Lauren and Grace.

Who will it be?

It's your choice.

♪ But it's alright 'cause it's midnight ♪

Starting right now, you can vote for either

Lauren or Grace online at americanidol.com

or by using the "American Idol" app.

You can also text your votes.

It's 10 votes per contestant per voting method.

♪ You make me feel like a natural woman ♪

Tune in next Sunday night

for an all‐new episode titled "American Idol: This is Me,"

where we'll take a deep dive into all your finalists

with unseen footage

and some new performances you don't want to miss.

Good night and be well, America.