When Kenedi Anderson performed "Applause" for her American Idol audition, judges Katy Perry, Lionel Richie, and Luke Bryan knew instantly she had what it takes to be a star. "I'm feeling threatened," Perry joked after her performance and Bryan said Anderson "might be the biggest star we've ever seen," adding she could make the "Top 10."
The judges enjoyed her performance so much, that they even awarded her the exclusive platinum ticket, giving her a serious advantage during Hollywood Week.
As expected, Anderson sailed through to the Top 24 but sadly withdrew from the competition before audiences found out her fate on Monday, April 11's show.
In a lengthy Instagram post, Anderson announced she was leaving the show for "personal reasons" and thanked "the judges, the producers, the amazing contestants, and all the fans who have supported me."
Many American Idol fans were gutted about Anderson's journey coming to an end on the show but one thing is for sure, Anderson has gained a whole load of new fans thanks to her appearance on American Idol. Newsweek has everything you need to know about Anderson.
5 Things About 'American Idol's' Kenedi Anderson You Should Know
1. Kenedi Anderson Received a Platinum Ticket
To celebrate 20 years of American Idol, this year, three lucky contestants were awarded a platinum ticket.
Not only did the platinum ticket secure a spot in Hollywood Week, but it also allowed the contestants to watch the other auditionees in the auditorium, allowing them to eye up the competition and pick their duet partner.
Anderson was one of the lucky singers to take home the coveted prize, alongside HunterGirl and Jay Copeland.
2. Kenedi Anderson Is a TikTok Star
When Kenedi Anderson auditioned for American Idol, she was already well known on TikTok with over 15,600 followers.
Now, her follower count stands at 109,000 (and counting) and she has 1.9 million likes.
Anderson mainly posts videos of her incredible singing voice but also has uploaded videos with friends, and family and trying out the latest TikTok trends.
3. Kenedi Anderson Has a Famous Father
Kenedi Anderson's famous father is Justin Anderson, a professional football coach, and former player.
He previously played for BYU (Brigham Young University) in Utah and at Ricks (Idaho) College.
From 2010 to 2015 he worked as an assistant coach and later assistant head coach at FCS member Nicholls State University and as the NFL liaison. He then went on to serve as a director of player personnel at the Virginia Cavaliers for six years.
Today, he is the coach of the East Carolina University (ECU) football team and the University's football director of player personnel and recruiting.
Love you @kenedianderson_! Dreams do come true when you work hard for them! God is good!! #AmericanIdol #kenedianderson https://t.co/LhWuRkHy0Z
— Coach Justin Anderson (@ECU_CoachJustin) March 7, 2022
4. Kenedi Anderson Has 4 Siblings
Kenedi is the daughter of Justin and Anne Anderson and the second oldest of five children.
Her siblings are called Dakota, Rubee, Peyton, Jayce, and Jackson.
5. Kenedi Anderson's Age
Kenedi Anderson is just 17 years old and was one of the youngest contestants taking part in American Idol 2022.
The age limit to appear on American Idol ranges from 15 years old to 29 years old at the time of audition.
American Idol airs Sundays and Mondays at 8 p.m. ET on ABC.
Uncommon Knowledge
Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground.
Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground.
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