Braden Rumfelt Impresses With Powerful ‘Hard Fought Hallelujah’ Performance, Proving He Deserves a Spot in the Top 12

Luke Bryan Declares This Contestant 'May Win' on 'American Idol'

The first “American Idol” live show of season 24 is here — and so is our LIVE coverage of what happens during each episode. Ryan Seacrest kicked off the show by revealing which of the Top 20 singers made it through to the Top 14, based on viewer votes cast during the last two weeks’ shows.

Braden Rumfelt Pours Soul into “Hard Fought Hallelujah” American Idol 2026  - YouTube

By the end of the night, only 12 contestants were supposed to remain, based on additional live voting during the two-hour episode. But in a shocking development, which you’ll see below in our live recap, only the Top 14 were announced!

Songs of Faith Theme on ‘American Idol’ Includes Special Guests

The show began its Songs of Faith theme with judges Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan singing the Commodores’ “Jesus is Love,” backed by the Top 20. Before the show kicked off, “American Idol” announced that tonight’s show will also include inspiring performances from beloved season 23 contestants Canaan, Kolbi Jordan, and Filo.

American Idol (@AmericanIdol) / Posts / X

Seacrest then introduced Richie and Bryan back to the stage, along with fellow judge Carrie Underwood back. He also said over 17 million votes have been cast over the last two weeks, and immediately revealed the Top 14.

The first person who made it through is Jordan. Next up, he said Chris Tungseth is in. Then, he announced Rae is also in the Top 14. Daniel Stallworth also made it through, as well as Brooks Rosser. Philmon Lee also advances to the Top 14, along with Braden Rumfelt. Keyla Richardson, whom he dubbed as “Drew’s mama,” got through, too. Lucas Leon is in, as is Jake Thistle. Hannah Harper got in, and so did Kyndal Inskeep. Making it into the final two spots are Julian Kalel and Jesse Findling.

That means those going home are Kutter Bradley, Ruby Rae, Madison Moon, Makiyah, Genevieve Heyward, and Abayomi.

Braden Rumfelt Suits Up for ‘Hard Fought Hallelujah’

Twenty-three-year-old Braden Rumfelt, looking dapper in a tan suit, was the second contestant of the night to take on a Brandon Lake tune, “Hard Fought Hallelujah.” He started out a bit timid, but the song — and his voice — built throughout his performance.

Murphy singer Braden Rumfelt advances to Top 20 on 'American Idol'

Underwood said, “You are here because you have an incredible voice,” and noted that the song built well and that he deserves to be there. Bryan said that Braden seemed “a little nervous in the moment,” and Richie also told him, “Don’t let it freak you out — you’ve got the tools, all you need to do is step into the light.”

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