The Shocking Final Cuts: Who Went Home On American Idol Season 22 And The Star Who Won It All

The question of "who went home on American Idol" is always a high-stakes moment, and the most recent complete season delivered some truly surprising results right before the finale. As of today, December 13, 2025, the last major eliminations from the competition came during the highly anticipated Top 5 reveal of Season 22, which aired in spring 2024. The competition was incredibly tight, but ultimately, two fan favorites saw their journeys end, paving the way for the Top 3 to battle it out for the ultimate title.

The final elimination night before the grand finale saw the departure of two incredibly talented artists: country singer and legacy contestant Emmy Russell and teenage country prodigy Triston Harper. Their sudden exit shocked viewers and judges alike, solidifying the final three contestants who would move on to the championship round. This season was particularly notable as it marked the farewell season for long-time judge Katy Perry, adding an extra layer of emotion to every single result show.

The Final Shock: American Idol Season 22 Top 5 Eliminations

The journey to the finale of American Idol Season 22 was a rollercoaster of incredible performances and tough goodbyes. The last major cut of the season, which reduced the field to the Top 3, sent two of the most talked-about contestants home, proving that no one—not even a country music legend's granddaughter—was truly safe from the public vote. The eliminations of Emmy Russell and Triston Harper were arguably the most emotional and surprising of the entire season.

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Emmy Russell (Top 5 Finalist)

• Full Name: Emmy Russell
• Age (During Show): 25
• Hometown: Nashville, Tennessee
• Musical Style: Country, Singer-Songwriter
• Key Detail: Granddaughter of Country Music Hall of Famer Loretta Lynn
• Audition Song: An original song titled "Skinny"
• Placement: Top 5

Emmy Russell entered the competition with the significant weight of her family's legacy, being the granddaughter of the iconic Loretta Lynn. She quickly established herself as a genuine, vulnerable singer-songwriter, often performing her own original material, which resonated deeply with the judges and viewers. Her elimination at the Top 5 stage was a major talking point, as many believed her unique voice and songwriting talent would carry her further, potentially even to the winner's circle. Her final performances showcased her raw, acoustic style, but ultimately, America's votes fell short.

Triston Harper (Top 5 Finalist)

• Full Name: Triston Harper
• Age (During Show): 15 (turning 16)
• Hometown: McIntosh, Alabama
• Musical Style: Country
• Key Detail: Proud member of the Choctaw Indian community
• Audition Song: "Til You Can't" by Cody Johnson
• Placement: Top 5

Triston Harper was the youngest contestant in the final rounds and a true country music prodigy. Hailing from the small town of McIntosh, Alabama, his powerful voice, mature stage presence, and deep connection to his Choctaw heritage made him a standout. Throughout the competition, Triston delivered authentic country performances that earned consistent praise from judges Luke Bryan, Lionel Richie, and Katy Perry. Despite his undeniable talent and growing fan base, the young star's journey concluded alongside Emmy Russell's, just shy of the Top 3.

The American Idol Season 22 (2024) Finalists and Winner

The elimination of Emmy Russell and Triston Harper solidified the three singers who would compete in the grand finale. These three finalists had demonstrated consistent vocal excellence, stage presence, and a deep connection with the audience, earning them the most votes from the American public.

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The three singers who advanced to the Season 22 finale were:

• Abi Carter: The 21-year-old pop singer from Indio, California, who blew the judges away with her powerful, emotional voice and piano skills from the very first audition.
• Jack Blocker: The 25-year-old country-folk artist from Dallas, Texas, known for his unique, quirky style and incredible musicality.
• Will Moseley: The 23-year-old country rocker from Hazlehurst, Georgia, who consistently delivered strong, commanding vocals.

The finale was a dramatic showdown, featuring performances by the three finalists, the judges, and various musical guests. In the end, the winner of American Idol Season 22 was crowned. The title went to Abi Carter. Carter’s victory was a culmination of a season-long display of incredible vocal talent and emotional depth, particularly her stunning rendition of "What Was I Made For?" by Billie Eilish, which became a viral sensation.

Katy Perry's Emotional Farewell and the Future of the Show

Season 22 was a landmark season for reasons beyond the incredible talent pool. It marked the final season for pop superstar Katy Perry as a judge. Perry, who had been on the panel since the show's revival on ABC, made the emotional announcement earlier in the year, making her critiques and final moments on the show all the more meaningful. Her departure leaves a massive void on the judging panel, which also included country icon Luke Bryan and music legend Lionel Richie, with Ryan Seacrest returning as the host.

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The dynamic between the judges was a major part of the show's success, and Perry's final season brought a sentimental weight to every elimination and crowning moment. Her final words to the contestants, including those who went home like Emmy Russell and Triston Harper, were filled with encouragement and advice for their future careers in the music industry. The search for a new judge to join Bryan and Richie for the upcoming season has been a hot topic of discussion among fans and entertainment news outlets, adding another layer of intrigue to the show's future.

The American Idol Legacy: What Happens After the Elimination?

For contestants like Emmy Russell and Triston Harper, an elimination from American Idol is rarely the end of their musical journey; it is often just the beginning. The exposure gained from reaching the Top 5 is invaluable, providing a massive platform that accelerates their careers.

Emmy Russell, with her established family connections and unique songwriting style, is expected to continue her work in Nashville's vibrant country music scene. Her original songs, like "Skinny," have already garnered significant attention and streams, setting her up for a successful career as a recording artist and performer. Similarly, Triston Harper's powerful voice and authentic country roots have positioned him as a promising young talent in the genre. Both singers, despite being eliminated, left an indelible mark on Season 22, proving that sometimes, the biggest stars are those who go home just before the final curtain call.

The American Idol machine continues to churn out talent, and while the latest season has concluded with Abi Carter as the reigning champion, the careers of every Top 5 finalist—including the eliminated stars—are now firmly on the national stage. Fans are eagerly awaiting news on the next season, the new judge, and the next wave of hopefuls who will face the pressures of the public vote and the coveted golden ticket.