Fans and followers of the American Idol Season 14 were in for a surprise when a supposed fan favorite was sent home packing in the last elimination round prior to the show's finale. Following a fun-filled visit to their hometowns, the Top 3 Idol hopefuls, Clark Beckham, Jax Cole, and Nick Fradiani, were once again back to the studio to face their fate in the competition. While the crowd roared in anticipation of the results, no one - not even the judges - could have been prepared for how the voting turned out.
In an astounding twist, Jax was booted off the competition, leaving Clark and Nick to battle it out in the finale to be held at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, according to US Magazine. This result came as a surprise since everyone in the show had been quite certain that the New Jersey native would be part of the Top 2 due to her strong performances throughout the season. Moreover, she had been one of the contestants who managed to attract followers early on in the competition as demonstrated by the fan group, "Jax Pack."
"I am the next American Idol," she said during an interview at the start of the season. "Music is my entire life. I plan on taking over the industry and changing the world. I'll never stop working. It's not a matter of "if," it's when."
She added, "I've always been a huge fan of the show and I couldn't think of a better opportunity to grow and inspire people around the world." Jax then went on to say, "I know I only have such a small block of time in my life to leave a footprint on this earth before I'm no longer here."
With conviction, the female artist asserted, "I was born to be on stage and touch people with my gift. This is the launching pad of a lifetime."
After announcing her departure from the show, the handler of the American Idol Season 14 Twitter account posted their message of support for Jax. They wrote, "@Jax, you're the baddest chick around! ROCK ON and keep those dreams alive! #IdolFinale"
Meanwhile, Jax also used her social media account to extend her gratitude to her loved one and fans. She posted, "I love you guys so much. This is not the end of the family we built. Thank you for being my rock. #JAXPack forever and always."
American Idol Season 14 will air its final episode on May 13, 2015.