Internet rumors have been swirling recently about American Idol fan favorite Hannah Harper, who was also coincidentally absent from this week’s Monday, March 23 episode.
Quickly after Harper’s initial idol audition with none other than her motherhood-inspired original song, “String Cheese,” the clip went viral online, cementing Harper as a frontrunner in the competition. With many alluding her voice to the sweet melodic tune of country greats like Allison Krauss and Lee Ann Womack, the aspiring star continued to wow viewers with her performances of the latter’s “A Little Past Little Rocks” and Vince Gill’s “Go Rest High On That Mountain.”
She’s also certainly learning early on in her career that with fame comes chatter and a slew of fake stories from people on the internet jumping to conclusions. If you’re in need of some entertainment, Facebook is filled with every AI story known to man, claiming Harper collapsed on stage, is pregnant, and several fake songs with the likes of Dolly, Brad Paisley, and even her husband. Mainly, speculation started circulating that Harper had left the show after being offered a record deal from none other than Parton’s label, Butterfly Records.
Considering the 26-year-old mother already has the foundation to establish herself as a country artist, it’s no surprise the rumor gained traction so quickly. After all, balancing three children with the demands of traveling to Idol tapings would be challenging for any full-time caregiver, making a direct jump to a record deal seem like a more feasible path.
However, fear not for those concerned or just out of the loop– No, Harper did not leave the show. She remains in the Season 24 Top 20 and is continuing to battle her way throughout the rest of the competition.
She clarified in a post on Instagram by setting the record straight, “This @americanidol TOP 20 did NOT sign a contract and leave the competition. The amount of AI and false information floating around right now is honestly mind-blowing.” In true Harper-fashion, she then followed it up with the bible verse Jeremiah 29:11 “For I know the plans I have for you…” and the optimistic statement, “we’re just gonna keep trusting the Lord and riding this wild wave together.”
Likewise, if you were confused as to why the Missouri-native did not take the stage Monday night, Idol split this past round into two separate weeks, with Harper featured on the first 10 performances on Monday, March 16. In case you missed it, she sang a fiery rendition of Bethel Music’s “Ain’t No Grave.”
The results determining the Final 12 remaining will be revealed this upcoming Monday, March 30, on ABC, along with Harper returning to the show once again with another worship song. Leading into Easter week, Idol will once again host its “Songs of Faith” theme night and give Harper fans a glimpse into her fate in the competition.