The mom of “American Idol” finalist Keyla Richardson has claimed her daughter was “robbed” following the show’s Season 24 finale, where the singer finished third.
“My baby was robbed,” Katja Richardson wrote on Facebook after Monday night’s ABC broadcast. “She did not fail. She was robbed i’m sorry I’m gonna say it!!”
Keyla, a 29-year-old teacher from Pensacola, Fla., placed behind winner Hannah Harper and runner-up Jordan McCullough in the live finale.
Richardson performed Alicia Keys’ “Un-Thinkable (I’m Ready)” before singing Whitney Houston’s “I Love The Lord” for the hometown segment.
Judge Luke Bryan praised her run on the show during the live broadcast.
“This whole year I just watched you focus with drive and determination,” Bryan said.
“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 added. “Congratulations, great job.”
Despite her mom’s reaction, Richardson kept things upbeat as she reflected on her run on the show.
“The journey has been amazing,” Richardson posted on Instagram. “We are just getting started #Idol.”
The singer also shared a post on Tuesday alongside fellow “American Idol” alum Breanna Nix, who finished in third place during Season 23 last year.
“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.”
The three-hour finale also featured performances from guest mentor Alicia Keys and judges Bryan, Carrie Underwood and Lionel Richie, who teamed up for a rendition of Richie’s “Deep River Woman.”
Underwood also performed with Mötley Crüe, joining the rock band for “Home Sweet Home” and “Kickstart My Heart.”
Other performers throughout the night included Brad Paisley, Cameron Whitcomb, Clay Aiken, En Vogue, Jason Mraz, Lee Ann Womack, Nelly, Shinedown and Tori Kelly.
Blues Traveler and Gin Blossoms also appeared during the live broadcast.
Meanwhile, Harper reflected on her win in an Instagram post of her own.
“What a wild, beautiful journey this has been,” Harper wrote. “And somehow we’re just getting started.”
“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,” she added. “Y’all changed my life.”
