“NOT THE END” American Idol contestant Slater Nalley and others react to Gabby Samone’s unexpected elimination

American Idol's shocking May 11 results left viewers and judges alike with their jaws on the floor when powerhouse vocalist Gabby Samone was eliminated just shy of the top 5. Fellow contestant Slater Nalley quickly took to social media with words of encouragement for the Baltimore native:

"I love you more than words can describe. You are a legend, Gabby Samone. Keep crushing it and this is NOT THE END for you WHATSOEVER. Gods more than got you."

The unexpected exit came after a night where Samone delivered two performances that earned lavish praise from American Idol judges Luke Bryan, Carrie Underwood, and Lionel Richie. Her rendition of "How Far I'll Go" from "Moana" and a heartfelt performance of "Home" from "The Wiz" dedicated to her mother had seemingly positioned her as a frontrunner.

Yet when Ryan Seacrest announced the results of the 20 million votes cast, Samone and 16-year-old Mattie Pruitt were sent packing, leaving even the veteran judges visibly stunned as cameras captured their shocked expressions.

How did the American Idol contestants and judges react to Gabby Samone’s elimination?

The elimination proved particularly jarring, given the judges' enthusiastic feedback moments earlier. Bryan had called Samone's Mother's Day tribute "my favorite performance you've done of the year," while Richie remarked:

"You were singing that song like you were closing the show."

Underwood didn't hold back either, telling Samone;

"Your talent is just ridiculous and week to week, you just deliver with ease."

The disconnect between the judges' praise and America's vote left many viewers furious. Social media quickly filled with promises to boycott the remainder of the season, with comments like "Gabbys gone ...so am I" appearing across the show's platforms.

Nalley wasn't the only contestant offering support. Platinum ticket winner Filo, who had been eliminated earlier, commented:

"GABBY!!! You are so special!!! In awe of your voice, your personality, and your humanity. Just wait, God has something so special waiting around the corner for you."

Former contestant Desmond Roberts added his own message:

"Love you SO much Gabby❤️ You're a phenomenal vocalist and I'm so happy to have gotten to know you on this journey."

Gabby Samone’s response and what’s next on American Idol

Despite the shocking turn, Samone demonstrated remarkable poise. Within 20 minutes of her elimination, she posted a gracious message to her supporters.

"Thank you all so much for the love and support!!! I am soo grateful to have made it this far! I love you all! Please continue to support my friends On their journey! This was an amazing experience!! THIS IS ONLY THE BEGINNING!! #TEAMGABBY"

Many American Idol fans drew parallels between Samone's journey and that of Jennifer Hudson, who also placed seventh in her season before becoming an EGOT winner. Hudson had previously invited Samone onto her show in 2022 after noticing her viral singing videos online.

As the competition narrows to its final episodes, the remaining five contestants will perform on May 12 to determine who advances to the coveted hometown visits. Meanwhile, Samone's elimination serves as a reminder of American Idol's unpredictable nature and how elimination doesn't necessarily spell career disappointment.

Samone's musical journey does seem to be just getting started, judging by the overwhelming support from fans, other contestants, and the judges themselves. If Jennifer Hudson's success after Idol is any guide, finishing seventh could just be a coincidence in a much longer career story.

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You can watch American Idol Season 23 live on ABC every Sunday at 8 p.m. ET/PT, with new episodes available for streaming the next day on Hulu.