Wyatt Pike has mysteriously dropped out of "American Idol."
The 20-year-old had just made the season's top 16, but rather than claim his spot, Ryan Seacrest revealed on Monday's episode that Pike would no longer be appearing in the show.
"Before we get to the results, I have to tell you that finalist Wyatt Pike will not be competing in the competition. He had to drop out, but we wish him the very best," Seacrest said.
In a statement to People, a rep for the contestant said he could not continue "due to personal reasons." No further explanation was offered, but last Wednesday Pike confirmed he was already home in Park City, Utah, in an Instagram post.
"Something to feel this through: home. Thankful for the rollercoaster I’m on today," he captioned two photos — one capturing the landscape of a snowy Park City and another of himself driving back home.
During his last appearance, Pike blew judges away with his performance of King's of Leons' hit single "Use Somebody."
"I think you do have a little bit of an angle in this competition that you're an authentic singer-songwriter," said Katy Perry. "I think whatever happens, you're it."
Lionel Richie told Pike that he had a "style on stage that we like to watch," adding that Pike was on his way "to something big."
Luke Bryan was also full of praise.
"I remember one of the coolest things ever happened to me is the day I realized that I get to do music forever, under any circumstance," he said. "I'm telling you, Wyatt, you are going to be able to do music for the rest of your life."
In an interview earlier this month with The Park Record, Pike spoke about his experience competing in "American Idol" and gave no indication that he was harboring any desire to exit the show. Instead, he expressed excitement at having progressed through the rounds.
"Making it through each round was amazing, but just getting an audition was great. Then when I showed up in Hollywood week, and it started to set in, I watched this on TV when I was little. So when I got the news that I was in the top 24, it was overwhelming," he said.
"I showed up to this wanting to give my absolute best, and I tried to keep expectations out of it," Pike added. "I’m making great friends and having a blast. It feels like I’ve won the lottery. Doors are beginning to open. At the end of the day, the friendships and making music with people on this show are the stuff that will stick with me. So, living this awesome life right now is special."
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