Key Takeaways:
– Pop star Katy Perry marked her departure from ‘American Idol’ with a tribute to 168 contestants.
– For her farewell duet with Jack Blocker, Perry wore a skirt displaying the faces of top 24 contestants from each of her seven seasons as a judge.
– Contestants expressed their surprise and appreciation on social media for being included in Perry’s fashion statement.
Pop star Katy Perry bid a memorable and fashionable goodbye to “American Idol,” honoring the show’s contestants in a unique way. Perry, who served as a judge for seven seasons on the show, took the stage in a tribute dress. The dress was adorned with the faces of the top 24 contestants from each season that she served. The ceremonial garment was a fusion of fashion and appreciation, which naturally stole the spotlight during her final performance on May 19, 2024.
A Tribute to Treasure
Perry performed a duet with Jack Blocker, third-place finalist of season 22. They belted out Perry’s 2020 hit, “What Makes a Woman.” As Blocker played the guitar and added a verse of his own, Perry slowly ascended on a rising platform. Below her, a unique skirt unfolded, revealing a galactic display of faces. It was an emotional tribute created by Heather Picchiottino, known for designing custom looks for pop stars like Olivia Rodrigo, Tate McRae, and Pink.
“I thought a good way to honor my time here would be to put the top 24 of each season on my skirt so they were all there,” Perry said to Entertainment Tonight. The move was intended as a surprise that slowly unfolded as Perry ascended higher and the skirt unrolled, unveiling more and more faces.
Contestants Express Gratitude
Upon recognizing their faces on Perry’s skirt, contestants took to social media to express their excitement and gratitude. Oliver Steele from season 21 posted photos of Perry’s performance on Instagram, happily pointing out his face on the dress. Kennedy Reid, a contestant from season 22, shared Perry’s post on her Instagram Stories. She praised Perry’s genuine care for each contestant, expressing her admiration and gratitude.
Season 22’s Ajii thanked Perry for everything, while Mackenzie Sol humorously commented, “Love that my face is on your dress 🤣 #claimtofame.” Indeed, it was a moment of humor, pride, and honor for those who made it on Perry’s farewell dress.
A Second Fashion Statement
Perry’s tributary dress wasn’t her only fashion moment of the night. A second outfit featured seven roses as a nod to her seven seasons on “Idol.” This golden corset custom made by Grace Ling. Ling, known for designing outfits for Jennifer Lopez, shared her process of designing, molding, and sewing the outfit on Instagram.
Throughout her stint on “Idol”, Perry has been known for taking fashion risks. From a Disney night outfit that transformed to a metallic top that led to a wardrobe malfunction, Perry’s decision to wear the tribute dress for her farewell was only fitting.
The Unexpected Farewell
Perry’s departure from “Idiol” was a surprise announcement made during a February appearance on “Live With Jimmy Kimmel”. Perry stated that she needed time to concentrate on her music and a forthcoming world tour.
With a tearful adieu that combined Perry’s love for fashion and her connection with the contestants, the pop star left her mark on “American Idol”. Not only did she entertain audiences, but she also nurtured talent, leaving an indelible impression on both the contestants and the show.