Eagleville’s Mattie Pruitt Saved by Judges, Advances to American Idol’s Top 7

HOLLYWOOD, Calif. (WGNS) - Eagleville native Mattie Pruitt is moving on to the Top 7 on American Idol after being saved by the judges during the Monday, May 5 episode.

The night featured the return of the judge’s song contest, where each judge—Luke Bryan, Lionel Richie, and Carrie Underwood—submitted three song choices for each contestant. Without knowing which judge picked which songs, the Top 8 contestants selected the one they felt suited them best.

Mattie chose “Always Been You” by Jessie Murph for her performance, a choice that let her show more attitude and stage presence, something the judges have been encouraging. Her selection also helped Bryan take the lead early in the song contest.

Once all contestants had performed, America’s vote determined the top six who automatically advanced. Mattie, however, landed in the bottom two alongside Josh King. Because Bryan and Richie tied in the song contest results, they were given the power to save one of the two contestants—and they chose Mattie.

Pruitt now moves on as one of the final seven contestants competing for the Season 23 title. The Top 7 will head to Disneyland Resort for the next round of performances during the show’s annual Mother’s Day special, featuring Disney classics and mentorship from Lin-Manuel Miranda.