“I’m sad to say I won’t be a part of tonight’s first live @americanidol show,” Bryan wrote. “I tested positive for COVID but I’m doing well and looking forward to being back at it soon.” But that doesn’t mean that Katy Perry and Lionel Richie will be going it alone. Rather, they will be joined by original American Idol judge Paula Abdul to critique the performances as the Top 12 is revealed. ABC announced on Instagram: “Luke will be missed at our first #AmericanIdol LIVE show tonight, but he is resting now in quarantine at home and we’re wishing him a speedy recovery. We’re so excited to announce @paulaabdul will be stepping in as a guest judge to join Lionel Richie and Katy Perry as we get closer to crowning a new winner!” Tonight, on American Idol, following America’s vote from the Sunday night’s performances, ten contestants will be revealed from the top 16 as moving into the Top 12, leaving six contestants to perform for a chance at one of two spots picked by the judges, rounding out the top 12. The top 16 are Alanis Sophia, Alyssa Wray, Ava August, Beane, Caleb Kennedy, Casey Bishop, Cassandra Coleman, Chayce Beckham, Colin Jamieson, Deshawn Goncalves, Grace Kinstler, Graham DeFranco, Hunter Metts, Madison Watkins, Willie Spence and Wyatt Pike. Luke’s absence isn’t the first time this season that one of the judges was missing in action. During the Showstopper performances on March 29 and 30, Lionel did his judging virtually from his home as a result of being exposed to COVID-19. Production is following strict, rigorous, COVID guidelines and everyone involved with American Idol is being tested often in accordance with those guidelines. ABC said in a statement, “Shooting a show during a pandemic constantly presents new challenges, but we are blessed to have the best crew in the business.” American Idol airs Sunday and Monday nights at 8 p.m. ET/PT on ABC.
