Story perspectives

American Idol Cuts Two, Announces 2006 Reunion Mentors

4/29/2026

Summary

Jordan McCullough Advances

On April 17, American Idol eliminated Brooks Rosser and Daniel Stallworth, leaving Jordan McCullough and four others in the Top 5.
Lionel Richie said McCullough’s Tim McGraw performance was his favorite, while Carrie Underwood called his voice smooth and incredible.
Next week’s “Class of 2006: Reunion” episode will feature Randy Jackson and Paula Abdul as guest mentors, with Abdul also joining the judges’ panel.

Summary

Jordan McCullough Leads

The episode opened with Taylor Swift songs and closed with California artists, creating a dual-theme night.
Contestant Keyla Richardson’s “I’d Rather Go Blind” and contestant Jordan McCullough’s “I Can’t Make You Love Me” prompted judges’ praise, with Lionel Richie saying the latter made him cry.
Fan-driven rankings placed Jordan McCullough first in the Top 5, with Keyla Richardson and Hannah Harper next, while Chris Tungseth took the final spot, surprising fans.

History

Historical Context

Fox debuted American Idol on June 11 2002 with judges Paula Abdul, Simon Cowell and Randy Jackson; Kelly Clarkson won, and the season averaged 12.7 million viewers, becoming a surprise summer hit that defined the modern talent-show model. Decades later the Top 5 contest echoes that format, featuring judges Lionel Richie and Carrie Underwood alongside original panelists Abdul and Jackson.

1 of 3

Jordan McCullough Advances

On April 17, American Idol eliminated Brooks Rosser and Daniel Stallworth, leaving Jordan McCullough and four others in the Top 5.
Lionel Richie said McCullough’s Tim McGraw performance was his favorite, while Carrie Underwood called his voice smooth and incredible.
Next week’s “Class of 2006: Reunion” episode will feature Randy Jackson and Paula Abdul as guest mentors, with Abdul also joining the judges’ panel.

1 / 3