American Idol viewers were wowed after the fan-loved defunct star revealed a surprise return to the show for the wild season finale

AMERICAN Idol fans were thrilled as one of their eliminated fan favorites made a shocking return.

Zachariah Smith will return to the Idol stage for Sunday’s finals after being eliminated in last week’s episode.

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The other contestant who was eliminated was Wé Ani.

Zachariah will perform again on final night.

He recently took to social media to thank fans for their overwhelming support and heartfelt comments.

The TV star shared a selfie of himself on the idol set.

He wrote: “Good morning everyone! I wanted to come here this morning and tell you all that I will be going through all my inboxes and comments and will do my best to reach out to each of you again over the next few days.”

I am so grateful to you all and thank you for giving me a few days to have a little space. lol I’ll be back in the studio today rehearsing for Sunday’s show!

Seriously guys it’s going to be such a fun finale! Can’t wait to see you all again on Sunday!”

FANS REACT

Fans have shared their reactions to his departure, with many even calling Zachariah “their American idol.”

One fan said: “Still so depressed you didn’t win but it just means you can hear more of your music faster. That’s great!!!”

“I’m so excited for the final, but not excited.” [You’re] “My American idol,” exclaimed another.

“I’m so depressed that you’re not with Idol anymore! You were my favorite,” a third posted.

A fourth said: “You are a shining star Zachariah!”

Tease new music

The 19-year-old has already overcome the loss and is working to further his singing career.

Hours into the episode, the TV star got down to business Instagram to keep his followers updated on what’s next for the talented artist.

He first thanked the fans for their support throughout the competition despite the unfavorable outcome.

Zachariah then revealed that his new single is coming out “very soon” and that fans can expect “more” from the up-and-coming singer.

The musician is also preparing to perform a live show for fans, but details are still being worked out.

Despite not making the top 3 on American Idol this season, Zachariah assured fans that it didn’t stop him from pursuing his dreams.

“We are not finished yet. This is probably just a fresh start for my new chapter in this new life. I don’t know it. It’s really weird. There’s a lot of things,” he said.

Zachariah again teased his future plans with the caption: “New things are coming!! I love you!!”

in one separate postthe TV personality shared a snippet of his new single “American Grace,” which he promised would be released soon.

According to fan comments, they’re already loving the track, with one person gushed, “This sounds AWESOME.”

Another agreed: “It’s so good I can’t wait to hear the full version when it comes out.”

And a third wrote: “I will be streaming this song nonstop! He sounds great. I can barely wait for it.”

SHOCKING ELIMINATION

Zachariah took the idol stage for the last time over the weekend to perform two Disney classics, appropriate to the episode’s theme.

However, he didn’t get enough votes and was sent home along with fellow contestant Wé Ani.

Instead, Colin Stough, Megan Danielle and Iam Tongi took the top three spots and will face off in the finals.

Fans were shocked by the decision, with one tweeting: “The two most talented singers/performers not in the top 3 next week.”

Another added: “OMG are you serious?! MEGAN DANIELLE was chosen over Zachariah Smith?! WHAT?! Zachariah was better than them!”

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