“American Idol” season 24 is narrowed down to its Top 5 contestants, but viewers are in for a special treat on the May 4 episode, which will celebrate the Class of 2006. The tribute is expected to bring back fan-favorite contestants from season 5, including winner Taylor Hicks.
However, longtime fans of Idol are wondering if that means they will see a special appearance from season 5 contestant Kellie Pickler. One of Idol’s most memorable contestants, Pickler has stayed out of the public eye for some time, even more so after the tragic death of her husband, Kyle Jacobs, in 2023.
Kellie Pickler to Join Class of 2006 During Special ‘American Idol’ Reunion Episode
Getty“American Idol” season 24 is having its Class of 2006 reunion special on May 4th, celebrating 20 years since the iconic season crowned Taylor Hicks. But fans are in for a bigger treat, as Hicks won’t be the only familiar face returning to the Idol stage.
On the official “American Idol” podcast, host Danielle Fishel revealed that alum Kellie Pickler will also make a rare appearance. She’ll be joined by fellow season 5 contestants Paris Bennett, Bucky Covington, and Elliott Yamin, with the group set to take the stage alongside this season’s Top 5 for a special round of duets.
The night will also see the return of original judges Paula Abdul and Randy Jackson. In addition, the episode will include performances with “Dancing With the Stars” professionals.
After all performances wrap on what’s expected to be an epic night of music, America will vote live, narrowing the Top 5 to the Top 3.
Pickler Has Stayed Out of the Spotlight
GettyPickler made it far during her run on Idol, placing sixth overall. She released her debut album “Small Town Girl” in 2006, which was certified Gold by the RIAA. She went on to release three more albums.
The songstress also had a memorable run on “Dancing With the Stars,” where she was partnered with Derek Hough for season 16. The pair ultimately took home the coveted mirrorball trophy.
According to her IMDb, Pickler has also worked in several films, mainly those for the Hallmark channel, including 2018’s “Christmas at Graceland,” 2019’s “Wedding at Graceland,” and “The Mistletoe Secret.”
It will be an emotional night for longtime fans of Pickler, as she has stayed away from the spotlight following the death of her husband, Kyle Jacobs. According to People, Jacobs, a respected songwriter, died by suicide on February 17, 2023. He was 49. They had been married for nearly 12 years at the time of his passing.
However, Pickler did make a return to the stage in April 2024, 14 months after her husband’s death, for a special performance honoring country legend Patsy Cline. “I’d be lying if I didn’t say I was incredibly nervous right now,” she told the audience, adding (via People), “It’s the first time I’ve been up on stage in a while.”
Pickler performed “The Woman I Am,” a song she wrote with her late husband. “I know he is here with us tonight,” she shared.
Fans can watch Pickler and her season 5 alum make their epic return to the Idol stage on Monday, May 4, at 8 p.m. ET on ABC.
