AMERICAN Idol winner Laine Hardy has been CUT from the show’s promo for its massive May 2nd reunion episode.
Fans now fear the fan-favorite’s entire performance will be dropped after his recent arrest.
On May 2, 2022, a fleet of familiar faces will be returning to the American Idol stage for The Great Idol Reunion.
The 20th-anniversary special event comes as Season 20 has been narrowed down to a Top 7 – and fans were thrilled by the lineup.
The duet-based night includes Ruben Studdard (Season 2) and Jordin Sparks (Season 6), “rockers” Kris Allen (Season 8) and David Cook (Season 7) Lauren Alaina and Scotty McCreery (both from Season 10) and more.
Former judges Paula Abdul and Randy Jackson will also be making special appearances – and David Archuletta even appeared in new promos thrilling many – but one duo was seemingly removed.
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Season 17 winner Laine, 21, taped a duet with Laci Kaye Booth – also from his season, per Deadline.
But he appeared to be cut from all new promotional materials ahead of the broadcast – including the poster.
“Where is Laine Hardy and Laci Booth?” one wrote under the lineup to the show’s official Instagram page, in which both of their names no longer appeared.
“Can’t wait!! Little upset because Laine and Lacey not there,” another fan wrote.
In a compilation video also shared ahead of the episode, both singers were completely absent as well – and only Laci solo appeared in another new Instagram slideshow showing each performer.
Laine and Laci both earlier appeared in a group photo she shared to Instagram.
“It was so nice gettin’ to see everyone! You’re not gonna wanna miss all of these beautiful performances! Tune in tonight,” she wrote.
Laine appeared in a grey suit while Laci was in a dress with her hair down, both smiling.
One fan wrote under her post: “Laci, what is the latest on your’s and Laine’s appearance tonight? … Can you tell us what song you did together? If they don’t air it, can you please please try to post it yourself?”
Another commented: “You and Laine are not listed on the Idol site as performing tonight. I hope we see you both.”
LAINE’S ARREST
The performance now in question comes after Laine’s recent arrest.
A source told TMZ that the singer allegedly placed a “listening device” in his ex’s home to listen in on her conversations, leading to his arrest – the outlet reported on April 29th.
He has been under “active investigation” by the Louisiana State University Police Department.
The authorities arrested the American Idol star, and he was booked on interception and for the disclosure of wire, electronic or oral communication.
A rep for the University confirmed the investigation to the publication.
Hours later, Laine was seen after he was released from Parish Prison as it appeared he had made bail.
His voice can be heard recording when he allegedly planted the device – with recordings including conversations of his former partner with her mom and their breakup.
The TV star previously released a statement on his official Facebook page regarding the legal matter – as well as to Twitter and Instagram.
His post read: “Earlier today, I received a warrant due to allegations made against me and have been fully cooperative with the Louisiana State University Police Department.”
Laine concluded: “I have the utmost respect for the law and will assist in their investigation as needed moving forward.”
After being eliminated from the singing competition during its 16th season, Laine Hardy returned to American Idol in 2019 to accompany his friend Ashton Gill to her audition, playing the guitar.
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When the judges – Katy Perry, Luke Bryan, and Lionel Richie – recognized Laine, they encouraged him to audition for the show again himself.
He quickly became a fan favorite during his second go and brought home the grand prize.
