Quote from Oladosun Joshua Segun on May 13, 2026, 4:28 AM

Keyla Richardson's mother did not anticipate this kind of situation. The American Idol finalist's mother, Katja Richardson, reacted shock that her daughter didn't win when she finished third in the season 24 finale on May 11, behind winner Hannah Harper and runner-up Jordan McCullough.

“My baby was robbed,” on May 11, Katja posted on Facebook. “She did not fail. She was robbed I’m sorry I’m gonna say it!!”

In appreciation of her guest mentor, Keyla began the finale by performing Alicia Keys' "Un-Thinkable (I'm Ready)" before diving into "I Love The Lord" for the show's hometown session.

https://youtu.be/G7rqiKBgdKM?si=YYFtYHMHOy-gAqu3

Her experience on the ABC shows truly impressed judges Carrie Underwood, Lionel Richie, and Luke Bryan.

"This whole year I just watched you focus with drive and determination," Luke said to her. "We've seen you just give it your all for your family and your crew and your people and you've won in our eyes.”

“Just watching you seize every moment has been so inspiring to me,” he continued. “Congratulations, great job."

The 29-year-old took a moment to enjoy her third-place result, but she did not address her mother's allegations.

“The journey has been amazing,” following the premiere, she shared something on Instagram. “We are just getting started #Idol.”

Keyla also had a meeting with Breanna Nix, another former American Idol contestant who finished third in the last season of the competition series.

“Season 23 & Season 24 3rd place finalist!” on May 12, Keyla posted on Instagram. “It’s NOT BAD AT ALL, it’s actually GREAT. I’m excited about what’s coming, It’s only up from here! Love you @breannanixmusic #Idol #Top3.”

Hannah, the night's major winner, talked about her feelings after winning. She is 25 years old.

“What a wild, beautiful journey this has been,” she posted on Instagram. “And somehow we’re just getting started."

Hannah went on to say, “Thank you to every single person who believed in me, prayed over me, voted, and helped carry this dream farther than I ever could’ve imagined. Y’all changed my life.”